Flashcard on Maya Angelou's Poem

Front

What can the reader infer about the speaker in Maya Angelou's poem?

Back

The speaker is an elderly person.

Front

Why does the speaker repeat the line 'Life doesn’t frighten me at all'?

Back

To suggest that she is braver than her classmates.

Front

What two words best describe the setting in the lines 'Shadows on the wall / Noises down the hall'?

Back

Dark.

Front

Which lines describe the most realistic threat to the poem’s speaker?

Back

Lines 28–29.

Front

What special source of strength does the poem’s speaker claim?

Back

A magic charm.

Front

What is the main theme of Maya Angelou's poem?

Back

Courage in the face of fear.

Front

How does the speaker's perspective on fear change throughout the poem?

Back

The speaker learns to confront and overcome her fears.

Front

What literary device is used in the phrase 'Shadows on the wall'?

Back

Imagery.

Front

What does the repetition of phrases in poetry often signify?

Back

Emphasis on a particular idea or emotion.

Front

What role do 'Barking dogs' play in the poem?

Back

They represent a source of fear for the speaker.