This lesson helps students learn how to read a poem closely and examine the poet’s use of words and images in order to lead them to a holistic understanding of the themes in the poem. It makes close reference to a poem by Alfred Lord Tennyson, "The Eagle".
Why does the writer describe the eagle as being “close to the sun” (line 2)? Select all that apply.
How does the writer demonstrate that the eagle is very comfortable in the setting of the poem? Select all that apply.
Identify the simile in the poem
Identify the personification in the poem
He clasps the crag with crooked hands
Close to the sun in lonely lands
Ring'd with the azure world he stands
The wrinkled sea beneath him crawls
He watches from his mountain walls
And like a thunderbolt he falls
Personification
Simile
Imagery
Metaphor
As we study English literature, it is important to learn how to read poems closely. By examining the poet’s use of words and images, we can unlock the deeper meanings and themes in a poem. For example, let us consider the poem "The Eagle" by Alfred Lord Tennyson.
As we continue to read and study other poems in English literature, let us remember to read closely and examine every word and image. Only then can we truly understand the themes and deeper meanings within a poem.
The first three lines describe the eagle's majestic perch on a , high above the world. The poet uses the image of the eagle's to suggest both strength and vulnerability.
Next, the poet describes the eagle's view of the world below. The represents the chaos of life, and the eagle stands apart from it on his . The poet uses the image of the eagle watching from to suggest a sense of detachment and aloofness.
Finally, the poet ends with a powerful image of the eagle's descent. Like a thunderbolt, the eagle falls from his perch, suggesting . By examining each of these images closely, we can understand the themes in the poem: the tension between and , the sense of detachment from the chaos of life, and the idea of power and speed.
Classify the tone and mood words used by Tennyson into groups.
loneliness, power
awe, admiration
Tone
Mood