Poetry Assignments

130 points

Memorized Poem and Quotes: Due: On the day you signed up on the door, but absolutely no later than January 8, 2017


100 points
Poetry Collection/Explication Guidelines: Due January 5, 2017

　
After reading several poems, you must select at least ten different poems by at least seven different poets to include in this collection. You may not use poems we have discussed in class, but you may use other poems by poets we have discussed in class.
Copy each poem into your collection. Be sure to include the title and the poet’s name.
You must annotate, using circles, arrows, whatever, to mark and label the poetic devices the poet used in each poem. Be thorough, as you will be deducted for glaring omissions.
You will then write (by that, I mean type) a paragraph for each poem, explicating each one. Look for a "door" into the poem. Is there a point of tension? Is there a shift at some point? You may discuss such as symbols, tone, allusions, alliteration, assonance, rhyme scheme, meter, rhythm, and any other poetic devices used, but be sure to say what those devices DO for the poem. Don’t just note their presence. That’s what the annotations were for. Make meaning. Consider the title. Consider meaning. Make a claim, and back it up. You can do this.


100 points
Original Poetry Booklet Guidelines: Due January 5

You will create ten original poems, using at least seven different forms we’ve learned about in class.
Three, and only three poems may rhyme. At least one poem must rhyme.
Use examples of every poetic device we’ve learned about. (Obviously, you can’t use them all on one poem, but over the course of this assignment, you should utilize each device at least once.)
Look back at some of our poetry experiences in class. Some can be worked up into fine poem.
You need to make an attractive cover, so that the likelihood that you will end up saving this booklet and showing it to your grandchildren is increased.
Please make every attempt to avoid clichés, those over-used, worn out expressions that we’ve all heard before. They have lost their luster, and they will detract from your poem, rather than enhance it. I’m looking for fresh perspectives, unique metaphors, the originality that only you can bring to this assignment. While I’m sure it would be very easy to get away with plagiarizing these poems, I would hope that your honor and your own sense of self would prevent that. Impress me. But more important than that, impress yourself.