Poetry Introduction

How can we read a poem in its elements (intro to poetry)?

HW: Find a song. Write or print the lyrics. Explain what the concept of the song is about. (Try finding a song in which people simply listen the rhythm without truly understanding the lyrics.

Poetry- literary work in which special intensity is given to the expression of feelings and ideas by the use of distinctive style and rhythm

Poetry is not meant to be read just once. In fact, most poems won't make much sense the first time you read them. Part of what makes poetry such an interesting and vital part of literature -- literally throughout the ages, from Homer to present day spoken word poets -- is that closer reading and more thought leads to more meaning and understanding.

"We duff into our first reading of a poem. We read that poem imperfectly (thoroughness with it would be fatal), but the better to read the second. We read the second to better to read the third..." -- Robert Frost

Read the poem and then look at the questions about this poem.

Now, ask yourself what you did you think the purpose of poetry was before reading this poem. Did this poem help you think about poetry differently?

This poem describes, in poetic form, one way of thinking of the purpose of poetry.

Toro Y Moi "Talamak"

A simple, stark song (poem) about a relationship that's ended, but the yearning the speaker still feels for his lost love. Talamak means addicted. How does that set the tone for the song?

Lionel Richie "Every Breath You Take"

This song is a perfect example of why close reading matters. Some folks have used this as their wedding song, but if you listen closely, you'll hear that this song is about a someone stalking someone.

Jack Jackson "Inaudible Melodies"

An allusion-filled, heavy on figures of speech song (poem) that urges us to re-consider our priorities and goals.

How to Read a Poem

This list can be used as your checklist for reading and understanding poetry and acts as a guideline for you as you're writing your papers -- that's what I'm looking for you to do in your papers - summarize, analyze, and interpret.

Poetry Is a Part of Life, Not Just This Class

Remember, you hear poetry every time you turn on the radio. You hear it in movies. At graduation. At weddings. At funerals.

Take time in this class to really appreciate the beauty that poetry offers.

I offer just a few examples here. Take the time to really listen to these. Think of others that are signicant to you.

Read, Read, Read

"Introduction to Poetry" -- Billy Collins