Next week I will ask you to write an in-class essay on one or two Akhmatova poems. (You will choose which poem[s] to write about, but you will need to choose something that will work for one of the prompts I give you.)
Each section of “Requiem” counts as one poem Each section of “Requiem” counts as one poem. There may also be one question that would ask about “Requiem” as a whole (for example, exploring a motif or theme that appears throughout multiple sections).
This will be a timed essay; you will turn it in before the end of class. You will have a choice of 3 prompts. You will need to use your copy of Akhmatova poetry—don’t forget to bring it. You may also use the vocabulary sheet and your own notes.
You should follow standard essay structure: • brief introduction that includes the author’s full name and the title(s) of the poem(s) and a clear thesis statement that responds directly to the prompt • supporting paragraphs, each of which starts with a clear topic sentence and includes specific evidence and brief quotations from the poem(s) • a brief conclusion if you have time
You should use the 70-minute class period thoughtfully, devoting 10-15 minutes to planning, 45-50 minutes for writing, and about 5 minutes for proofreading. You will need to use the full time—if you finish early, start writing about another poem (I’ll be forgiving about that not fitting into your original structural plan).
[Author] does x to create y [Author] does x to create y. Angelou uses complex imagery and rhythmic elements to create an atmosphere of celebration.
[Author] does x to create y. (And SO WHAT?)
[Author] does x to create y. (And SO WHAT [Author] does x to create y. (And SO WHAT?) Shakespeare uses imagery of seasons and clever wordplay to contrast human mortality with the eternal nature of poetry.
[Author] does x to create y. (And SO WHAT [Author] does x to create y. (And SO WHAT?) Shakespeare uses imagery of seasons and clever wordplay to contrast human mortality with the eternal nature of poetry. Hughes uses sound and structural elements to communicate the rhythms and power of blues music. Through this pairing of poetry and music, he asserts both the vitality and hardship of life in Harlem in the 1930s.
Sample prompts: Shakespeare often explores the pain of romantic relationships in his sonnets. How does the poet use specific style elements to do this in one or two of the poems that you have studied, and to what effect or purpose? Choose one or two poems that have first-person speakers. Analyze the voices of those speakers. What techniques does the poet use to create these voices, and to what effect?