The poem begins with the speaker describing her mother as a "big terrifying woman." This image suggests that the speaker feels both intimidated and awestruck by her mother. The speaker goes on to describe her mother as "a bird of prey" and a "vampire," suggesting that she sees her mother as a powerful and dangerous figure.
As the poem progresses, the speaker reveals that she feels trapped and suffocated by her mother's love. She longs for independence and freedom, but she is also afraid of leaving her mother behind. This conflict is reflected in the poem's imagery, which is often dark and oppressive.
In the end, the speaker comes to terms with her mother's death. She realizes that she can never truly be free from her mother's influence, but she also accepts that she must move on with her own life. The poem ends with the speaker expressing a sense of hope and possibility, as she looks forward to the future.
"The Daughter" is a powerful and moving poem about the complex relationship between mothers and daughters. It is a poem about love, loss, and the search for independence.