The poem is written in free verse, structured as a single, continuous stanza (or a series of tightly coupled stanzas depending on the specific anthology printing). This block-like visual structure mirrors the theme of . Just as the father feels "cocooned" in his domestic life, the text itself feels somewhat crowded, lacking the breezy white space usually associated with travel or freedom.

: Even as her memory "loosened" and her mind approached a "twilight door," her "body [was] still intact" and her "tongue still sharp". This highlights her inner strength and sharp personality that persisted despite physical aging.