Becoming a Ghost

Front

What does the phrase 'I am still waiting to be found' signify in the context of the poem?

Back

It highlights the speaker's desire to find purpose and reveals their own suffering and sense of absence.

Front

What does the title 'Becoming a Ghost' suggest about the author's view of death?

Back

It suggests that death is a process that happens over the course of a lifetime.

Front

How does receiving Communion in childhood relate to the concept of death in the poem?

Back

The act symbolizes preparing oneself for death, thus obstructing the innocence of childhood.

Front

What does the word 'breadcrumbs' symbolize about the brother in the poem?

Back

It symbolizes that he needed the speaker to guide him back home after struggling with substance abuse or self-destruction.

Front

What does the contrast between 'a scar and its wounding' emphasize about the speaker's relationship with their brother?

Back

It emphasizes that the brother doesn’t know the difference between healing and pain, making it difficult for the speaker to help.

Front

Define the concept of 'absence' as it relates to the speaker's experience in the poem.

Back

Absence refers to the feeling of emptiness and lack of purpose that the speaker experiences.

Front

What role does childhood play in the understanding of death in the poem?

Back

Childhood is portrayed as the time when the concept of death is first introduced, often through rituals like Communion.

Front

Explain the significance of Communion in the context of the poem.

Back

Communion represents a spiritual preparation for death, marking a loss of innocence.

Front

What does the speaker's struggle with their brother reveal about familial relationships?

Back

It reveals the complexities of love, support, and the challenges of dealing with a loved one's suffering.

Front

How does the poem depict the theme of suffering?

Back

Suffering is depicted as a shared experience that connects the speaker and their brother, highlighting their struggles.