1. When you hear of a complete stranger’s death on the news, do you find it hard to imagine what that loss might feel like to their loved ones?
2. Why do you think news of a child’s death tends to have more of an impact on society than an adult’s?
COMPREHENDING AND RESPONDING
1. What do you think the poet means when he says that Lucy ‘dwelt among the untrodden ways’? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
2. What impression of Lucy’s life do you get when the poet writes: ‘A Maid whom there were none to praise/ And very few to love’? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
3. In stanza two the poet uses a metaphor and a simile to describe Lucy. Why do you think he chooses these two apparently contrasting comparisons? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
4. Do you feel sad that ‘few could know/ When Lucy ceased to be’? Give reasons for your answer.
5. ‘Much of the emotional impact of “She Dwelt among the Untrodden Ways” comes from the poignant closing lines of the poem.’ Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
6. How would you describe the tone of this poem? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
7. What theme or themes can you find in this poem? Refer to the poem in support of your answer.
8. Having read this poem, do you think ‘She Dwelt among the Untrodden Ways’ is the best possible title for it or would you choose another? Give reasons for your answer.
CREATING
1. Write a personal essay in which you explore the things (people, events, songs, books, experiences, etc.) that have made a real difference in your life.
2. Write an inspiring speech for your school graduation in which you encourage your audience of fellow school leavers to take the paths in life which are right for them, rather than choosing the paths that everyone else is taking.
3. Write a comforting letter or email to a friend who has suffered a personal loss which no one else really understands.
