1. What time of year is mentioned in this poem? 2. Find the repetition in the poem. 3. How do you know that this poem is written in free verse?
Explore 3
1. How did this poem make you feel? 2. In your opinion, what is the central theme of the poem?
3. Explain what the speaker means when he mentions his daughter. You should include quotations from the poem in your answer.
Investigate
Find at least two other examples of poems written in free verse. You may wish to search for poems by Emily Dickinson or Langston Hughes, who often write in this style.
Create
1. (a) Write a poem of your own in free verse in the space provided on page 27 of your Portfolio. Derek Walcott chose to set his poem during the summer. Set your poem in any one of the four seasons.
(b) Write a second draft of your poem, aiming to improve on your fi rst attempt, in the space provided on page 83 of your Portfolio.
(c) When you are happy with your poem, recite it to the class. When you speak, remember to: express yourself clearly – vary your tone speak at the right speed – do not rush control the volume – ensure you can be heard.
