Definitions of Poetry Elements
A figure of speech that describes an object or action in a way that isn’t literally true, but helps explain an idea or make a comparison.
What is a metaphor?
Applying your beliefs and experiences to the text
What is Reader Response Theory Lens?
The storm clouds cried raindrops all over the city.
What is personification?
"Dreamer, if you are like me, YOU ________ ANYWAY"
JUMP
The belief that anyone, regardless of where they were born or what class they were born into.
The American Dream
The attitude a poet takes toward their subject.
What is tone?
Looking at the author’s life and relating that information to the text.
What is Biographical Theory Lens?
The large oak tree was an anchor.
What is a metaphor?
“We are shelves, we are/Tables, we are meek,/We are edible,/Nudgers and shovers/In spite of ourselves.”
"Mushrooms" by Sylvia Plath
Who can attain the American Dream?
Anyone, everyone
When this person narrators the action in the story, they will use “he,” “she,” and “they” to describe events.
What is 3rd person?
Looking at literary devices and the details of a text to understand the overall meaning, theme, and author’s purpose.
What is New Criticism Theory Lens?
The heart representing love; an angel representing heaven; a child representing innocense.
What is a symbol or symbolism?
“plump helium heart”
"Valentine's Afternoon" by Michael McFee
The American Dream is both a _____________ goal and a _______________ goal.
personal, collective
To give human qualities to an inanimate object of non-human object.
What is personification?
Looking at binaries, gender roles, and representation.
What is Gender Theory Lens?
"humble house" "picture perfect" "Peter Piper"
What is alliteration?
“I'm sick of seeing and touching/Both sides of things"
"The Bridge" by Kate Rushin
Achieving the American Dream depends on _______ _____ _______.
who you are.
The image or metaphor that carries the weight of the true meaning of an author’s piece of work, usually paired with the “tenor” as a writing device.
What is vehicle?
Looking at class conflicts, economic role in society.
What is Social Theory Lens?
“Robert Frost’s poem makes readers reflect on their lives and think about the nature around them.”
What is mood?
"Knowing that Mrs. Mallard was afflicted with a heart trouble, great care was taken to break to her as gently as possible the news of her husband’s death."
"The Story of an Hour" by Kate Chopin
Anyone can attain their own version of ____________ in a society in which upward mobility is possible for ____________.
success, everyone