David

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"David" by Earle Birney is a fictional, narrative poem. The strength of the poem is definitely its narrative quality. It tells a detailed and emotional story with the use of poetic devices that allow the reader to experience the emotion of the characters. A major theme of this poem would be maturity.

Ð'* Identify the genre of the poem, what are the themes and conventions of the poem?

Ð'* Consider the speaker and tone of the poem

Ð'* Is the tone earnest, cynical, haughty, blasÐ"© or satirical?

Ð'* List any other important points that relate to the poem as a whole

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Ð'* Describe the poems structure in terms of line length, punctuation, rhyme, rhythm, verse form and other patterning devices.

Ð'* Ask how the patterning relates to the meaning and theme of the poem

Ð'* Is the verse form, or lack of verse form, appropriate to the subject matter?

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Ð'* Consider the poems imagery. Is it sensuous, concrete, impressionistic, decorative or picturesque? Are any symbols employed?

Ð'* Is the imagery conventional for the subject matters?

Ð'* Identify any significant allusions and their sources

Ð'* How are figures of speech used (metaphors, simile etc)

Ð'* How does imagery help convey meaning and tone?

Ð'* What kind of appeal does imagery have?