Writing Homework Help

Critical Parts of the Response

1. Introduce and describe the poem
   1. cite the title and author in a signal phrase
   2. identify the “form” of the poem if applicable
   3. describe the “structure” of the poem: number of verses, lines, rhyme scheme, other important literary devices, etc.
   4. preview the theme of the poem
2. Explain the LITERAL LEVEL (paraphrase the poem)
   1. Identify the situation and the speaker
   2. explain what the poem means literally, what “actually” happens in the poem, what the poem means on the most basic level
3. Explain the FIGURATIVE LEVEL (This is where you discuss and show the main THEME of the poem.)
   1. focus on what the poem suggests beyond the literal: look for symbolism, representation, and deeper meaning; what is the poem really talking about? What does it argue about life? This is where you discuss and show the main THEME of the poem.
4. Interpret the poem personally: respond to the claim/argument of the poem
   1. relate the theme of the poem to your own personal experience
   2. discuss how your own experience “informs” the poem; what does the poem say to you as an individual? Why?

Help:

1. • Your response should be exactly four paragraphs long when you are done

• Write in your natural voice: just try to explain the poem as well as you can…have confidence in your interpretation
• Be sure to revise and edit your writing when you are done with the initial draft. Get feedback and improve your control of English.
• Remember: the final job every reader undertakes is to agree or disagree or qualify the argument that a work of literature presents. Readers do not have to accept what poets say; truth arises from within…