Summary of the poem "Father to Son":
The poem "Father to Son" by Elizabeth Jennings explores the strained relationship between a father and his son. The poem highlights the disconnect and lack of communication that exists between them. The father is depicted as distant and unable to express his emotions, while the son is portrayed as rebellious and seeking his own identity. The poem delves into the complexities of the father-son relationship and the difficulties of bridging the generation gap.

Explanation in detail:
1. Title:
The title "Father to Son" immediately suggests that the poem will revolve around the relationship between a father and his son.

2. Poetic Devices:
Elizabeth Jennings employs various poetic devices throughout the poem to convey the emotions and themes. These include metaphors, personification, and imagery.

3. Tone and Mood:
The tone of the poem is somber and melancholic, reflecting the strained relationship between the father and son. The mood is reflective and introspective, as both characters contemplate their roles and responsibilities in the relationship.

4. Father's Perspective:
The father in the poem is portrayed as emotionally distant and unable to express his love for his son. He feels a sense of regret and guilt for not being able to connect with his son on a deeper level. The use of metaphors, such as "a frozen lake," emphasizes his emotional coldness.

5. Son's Perspective:
The son is depicted as rebellious and seeking his own identity. He feels trapped and suffocated by his father's expectations and attempts to break free. The use of imagery, such as "a bird held in the hand," conveys his desire for freedom.

6. Lack of Communication:
The poem highlights the lack of communication between the father and son. They struggle to understand each other's emotions and perspectives, leading to a disconnect in their relationship. The use of personification, such as "our hands speak," emphasizes their inability to communicate effectively.

7. Generation Gap:
The poem explores the theme of the generation gap and the difficulties of bridging the divide between different generations. The father and son belong to different eras and have contrasting values and beliefs, leading to a clash in their relationship.

8. Responsibility:
In terms of responsibility for the relationship, both the father and son share the burden. The father is responsible for his emotional distance and inability to express love, while the son is responsible for his rebellious nature and resistance to understanding his father's perspective.

Overall, "Father to Son" is a poignant exploration of the complexities and challenges within a father-son relationship. It delves into themes of communication, responsibility, and the generation gap, shedding light on the struggles faced by both parties involved.