Poem Analysis 1

How does the repeating structure of the lines in the first stanza contribute to the meaning of the poem?

• by connecting the speaker to historical rivers

• by describing how rivers have changed over time

• by showing why the rivers can cause people to dream

• by explaining why the speaker has abandoned the rivers

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.4

CCSS.RL.7.5

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

What does the phrase when dawns were young in line 5 most likely indicate about the time period being discussed?

• The earth was still new.

• The days did not last as long.

• The speaker was a child then.

• The speaker can barely remember.

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.4

CCSS.RL.7.5

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5

Reread the line from the poem below and answer the question that follows:

“I built my hut near the Congo and it lulled me to sleep.”

What is the meaning of lulled as it appears in the text?

• calmed

• tricked

• defended

• Frightened

Tags

CCSS.RI.6.4

CCSS.RI.7.4

CCSS.RI.8.4

CCSS.RL.7.4

CCSS.RL.8.4

What is a theme of the poem?

• History can be changed.

• Nature presents unique dangers.

• Travel can inspire with new ideas.

• People are connected to their pasts.

Tags

CCSS.RL.5.9

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

CCSS.RL.9-10.2

How does the poet develop this theme?

• by warning about the force of different rivers

• by connecting African American to different periods of time

• by describing different trips one can take around the world

• by arguing for a different understanding of historical events

Tags

CCSS.RI. 9-10.9

CCSS.RL.5.9

CCSS.RL.6.2

CCSS.RL.7.2

CCSS.RL.8.2

How does this poem contribute to the Harlem Renaissance?

Tags

CCSS.RL.7.10

CCSS.RL.7.4

CCSS.RL.7.5

CCSS.RL.8.4

CCSS.RL.8.5