The Telephone Call, Fleur Adcock: Summary, Analysis & Themes
The Telephone Call, Fleur Adcock: Summary, Analysis & Themes
"The Telephone Call" by Fleur Adcock centers around a phone conversation between the speaker and the "Universal Lotteries." The choice of the definite article "the" instead of "a" before "telephone conversation" suggests that this particular conversation holds significant meaning in the poet’s life. It could have led to personal change or become a memorable moment she reflects upon. Despite its straightforwardness, the poem’s simplicity and humor engage the reader until the final twist, which leaves them eagerly anticipating the conclusion.
The Telephone Call by Fleur Adcock
They asked me 'Are you sitting down?
Right? This is Universal Lotteries,'
they said. 'You've won the top prize,
the Ultra-super Global Special.
What would you do with a million pounds?
Or, actually, with more than a million—
not that it makes a lot of difference
once you're a millionaire.' And they laughed.
'Are you OK?' they ask…