higher english liz lochhead poems

"Tables polished clear enough to see distortions in"

A high level of polishing suggests an obsessive nature and major concern with appearance. ‘Distortions’ suggest all is not well under the surface.

"shuffle stocking-soled, tiptoe – the parquet floor"

 Suggests discomfort and awkwardness.Suggests awkwardness and a concern not to disturb or break anything which is ironic given the speaker’s aim of breaking the mother and son’s relationship as it currently stands

"Silver sugar-tongs and silver…