Background:
It could be argued that the current news media places too much emphasis on the negative aspects in society and not enough on all of the good. Counter-argument? Drama sells.
This week, let's focus on the good in the world, in life - in
your life. Again, I'm a bit of a sentimentalist.
Hallmark may have my number, but I like the idea of a day devoted to celebrating relationships of all kinds.
Assignment:
1. Read and re-read "Valentine" by Carol Ann Duffy (poem below). Consider our many discussions on relationships and especially, symbols.
2. Examine any and all poetic devices, focusing on how such devices contribute to the meaning, the effect, or both, of a poem. (What is important is not that you can identify the names of all poetic devices so much as that you can explain how the devices enhance meaning and effect.) Especially note anything that is repeated, either individual words or complete phrases. Anything said more than once may be crucial to interpretation. Write a minimum of one paragraph on this topic.
3. In identifying theme, recognize the human experience, motivation, or condition suggested by the poem. Use this theme chart to generate your theme statement. (Complete each step - they're short!)
PLOT: Write a summary of the "plot" or events of a poem written in a short paragraph form. SUBJECT: Discuss the subjects of the poem. These may just be listed as words or phrases. THEME: After combining subjects where appropriate, write one to two complete sentences identifying what idea the poet or speaker (narrator) is conveying.
4. Finally... be creative! In approximately one paragraph, write about one or more symbols of affection that you (personally) have given, received, or hold to be true in your life.
Quotes to consider:
"The fact is that people are good. Give people affection and security, and they will give affection and be secure in their feelings and their behavior." - Abraham Maslow (Remember "Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs"?)
"Do not give in too much to feelings. A overly sensitive heart is an unhappy possession on this shaky earth." - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe
Optional, extra credit assignment:
Engage in a meaningful conversation (at least one paragraph or more) with at least one of your classmates.
Due date:
Friday, February 18th at midnight
“Valentine”
Carol Ann Duffy
Not a red rose or a satin heart.
I give you an onion.
It is a moon wrapped in brown paper.
It promises light
like the careful undressing of love.
Here.
It will blind you with tears
like a lover.
It will make your reflection
a wobbling photo of grief.
I am trying to be truthful.
Not a cute card or a kissogram.
I give you an onion.
Its fierce kiss will stay on your lips,
possessive and faithful
as we are,
for as long as we are.
Take it.
Its platinum loops shrink to a wedding-ring,
if you like.
Lethal.
Its scent will cling to your fingers,
cling to your knife.
