E.Q. How does a poem mean more than just the literal words in it? Poetry E.Q. How does a poem mean more than just the literal words in it?

Read the following excerpt Read the following excerpt. See if you can “figure out” what is being said. These fancy things will never come in between. You’re part of my entity, here for infinity. When the world has dealt its cards If the hand is hard, together we’ll mend your heart Because when the sun shines, we’ll shine together…

Excerpt continued …told you I’ll be here forever Said I’ll always be a friend. Took an oath, I’m (going to) stick it out till the end Now it’s raining more than ever know that we’ll still have each other You can stand under my umbrella. “Umbrella” by Rihanna

Think-Pair-Share What does an umbrella stand for in this song (which is a type of poem)? Is the song really about a rain storm?

Now read this excerpt Life’s like a road that you travel on when there’s one day here and the next day gone Sometimes you bend; sometimes you stand. Sometimes you turn your back to the wind. There’s a world outside every darkened door where blues won’t haunt you anymore where the brave are free and lovers soar. Come, ride with me to the distant shore. We won’t hesitate to break down the garden gate.

Excerpt 2 continued There’s not much time left today. Life is a highway. I want to ride it all night long. If you’re going my way, I want to drive it all night long. “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts

Think-Pair-Share What do you think the highway stands for? Is this song only about driving? What does the speaker mean by “sometimes you bend; sometimes you stand”?

Read this final excerpt In this farewell There’s no blood There’s no alibi ‘Cause I’ve drawn regret From the truth Of a thousand lies. So let mercy come And wash away….

Final excerpt continued What I’ve done. I’ll face myself To cross out what I’ve become, Erase myself And let go of what I’ve done. “What I’ve Done” by Linkin Park

Think-Pair-Share What is meant by “washing away”? Is this a song about washing up, showering or bathing? What is meant by “erase myself” do you think?

It’s your turn! Find some appropriate lyrics, either on the internet or from a CD case. Look for a specific section which seems to stand for something else. Is there anything else this song is trying to say to the listener? Don’t just think of the type of music you normally listen to. Have your parents help with looking through their old songs, too.