Nature Imagery

Nature is a common topic in literature. Some writers treat the natural world apart from human life; others concern themselves with nature and its effects on human experience. Poetry is often about nature and poets often reveal their themes or ideas about nature by drawing parallels to life in the form of storms, seasons, clouds, colors, plants or animals using descriptive language.

These sensory words are used to create an impression. Imagery or words that stimulate the reader's imagination by appealing to the senses help to make a literary work powerful. Instead of using ordinary language that readers may take for granted, the writer chooses words that make a vivid impression. They need not be long or obscure in meaning. They should, however, be striking.

Task:

In this activity, you will discuss how a poet uses descriptive language to communicate perspective and identity. Pick out the imagery used to describe nature in each of the poems and think about how it conveys the poet's perspective on nature. Consider what this point of view reveals about the author. Decide if the descriptive details are effective in conveying the poet's feelings and perspective on nature. Is the writer's use of nature imagery effective?

PART A: Read these 3 poems: "Big Wind" by Theodore Roethke, "Afterglow" by Jorge Luis Borges and "Loss" by A.R. Ammons. Fill out the TPCASTT graphic organizer for each poem.

PART B: Using your notes from Part A, respond to the specific questions on the following worksheet to complete the assignment.

Assignment 3 - Nature Imagery Worksheet (.PDF)

Assignment 3 - Nature Imagery Worksheet (.DOCX)

Submit your completed quest HERE when it's ready for assessment, and let me know if/why you require additional XP.