Analysis of Poem - This Life by Rita Dove

Which theme is present in the poem?

• The importance of family traditions

• The significance of perseverance

• The dangers of remaining silent

• The joys of cooking

What does the cluster of grapes represent in the poem?

• A symbol of abundance and prosperity

• A metaphor for wisdom

• An analogy for the narrator's achievements

• A representation of family traditions

The tone of this selection can best be described as -

• Reverent

• Melancholic

• Inspirational

• Critical

The figurative language in lines 9 and 10 highlights the grandmother’s

• desire to avoid conflicts

• tendency to keep secrets

• strategy to impart wisdom

• ability to create humor

In lines 19 through 21, the poet’s tone can be best described as -

• Sarcastic

• Optimistic

• Despairing

• Humorous

How does the grandmother's advice to "try as hard as you can every minute you're given or else sit down and shut up" (lines 23-25) reflect the overarching theme of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity throughout the poem?

• It suggests that giving up in difficult times is acceptable as long as one tries their best initially.

• It emphasizes the importance of remaining silent and enduring hardships passively.

• It highlights the grandmother's belief in the necessity of continuous effort and determination to overcome obstacles.

• It implies that success is solely determined by luck and circumstance rather than personal effort.

What does the poet’s use of figurative language in lines 13 and 14 convey to the reader?

• A sense of bitterness and regret, as the grapes represent missed opportunities.

• The idea of abundance and joy, symbolizing the richness of life and experiences.

• A feeling of confusion and uncertainty, as the imagery is unclear and ambiguous.

• The notion of decay and decline, suggesting that even joyful moments are fleeting.

The overall tone of the poem can best be described as

• objective

• respectful

• skeptical

• critical

How does the tone of the poem “This Life” contribute to the portrayal of its theme of resilience and perseverance?

• The tone is somber and melancholic, reflecting the challenges faced by the speaker.

• The tone is upbeat and optimistic, highlighting the speaker's determination to overcome obstacles.

• The tone is indifferent and detached, suggesting a lack of emotional investment in overcoming adversity.

• The tone is sarcastic and mocking, undermining the significance of resilience and perseverance.

The personification in lines 32 and 33 emphasizes the grandmother’s

• small size

• commanding presence

• family history

• successful career