• Choose only one of the below options to write an essay.
• Citing/quoting any of the primary sources, proper in-text citations are required; a works cited page is not required if you are using the assigned, provided editions of the texts. If you are using another edition of any of the primary sources, a works cited page is required.
• Citing/quoting/using any secondary sources, a works cited page is required.
Discussion may include imagery, tone, symbols, theme, irony or other poetic devices to answer these questions.
You may interpret the poem in whatever way you best see fit, but your essay must have a thesis: a statement that provides a unique argument/interpretation about the poem and a focus as to how you will argue this interpretation. Avoid summarizing the poem.
If you are struggling with an interpretation, consider: while discussing the definition of literature, we discussed how literature should express a universal human truth or emotion. What universal human truth or emotion does the poem express? Interpret the poem in terms of this.
Please note: this means more than simply indicating what universal human truth or emotion is being expressed; you should also include a discussion/interpretation as to why this is an important theme in the work and what the poet is expressing about this truth/emotion.
This question is rather loose, so remember, your essay should incorporate a thesis (unique interpretation and focus), relevant discussion, specific examples/scenes/quotations, and should also use the literary devices discussed in class to support your claims; discussion could include imagery, tone, symbols, characters, representation, theme, irony or other poetic devices.
