Poetic Devices
What is a metaphor?
A comparison between two unlike things
Where is the speaker stopping?
In the woods (to watch snow falling)
Who is speaking in the poem?
A mother
What is the theme of “Mother to Son”?
Never give up
What is one similarity between the two poems?
Both are about life’s journey
Give an example of a metaphor from “Mother to Son.”
Life is a staircase
What does the horse think is strange?
Stopping in the woods without a farmhouse nearby
What does “crystal stair” represent?
An easy or perfect life
What is the theme of “Stopping by the Woods”?
Responsibility vs. rest (or continuing your journey)
What is one difference in tone?
Frost = calm/quiet, Hughes = inspiring/encouraging
What is imagery?
Language that creates pictures in the reader’s mind
What is the setting of the poem?
A dark, snowy evening in the woods
Name one obstacle mentioned in the poem.
Tacks, splinters, torn boards, no carpet
What does the woods symbolize?
Peace, rest, or temptation to stop
How are the speakers different?
One is a traveler (Frost), one is a mother giving advice (Hughes)
Give an example of imagery from “Stopping by the Woods.”
“Woods fill up with snow”
What might “promises to keep” symbolize?
Responsibilities or duties in life
What advice does the mother give?
Keep going and don’t give up
What does the staircase symbolize?
Life’s struggles and progress
How do both poems show perseverance?
Frost continues his journey; Hughes says to keep climbing
What is repetition and where is it used?
Repeating words/phrases; “And…” in Hughes’ poem
What is the tone of the poem?
Calm, quiet, peaceful (with a slightly serious tone)
What is the extended metaphor in the poem?
Life is like climbing a staircase
How do both poems teach a life lesson?
They show the importance of continuing despite challenges
Which poem uses informal speech?
“Mother to Son”