PRE-READING 1. Do you think there is life on other planets? Give reasons for your answer.
2. If aliens are out there somewhere, observing us on Earth, what do you imagine they think of us?
3. Space travel may become a possibility for everyone in the future. Would you like to visit space? Give reasons for your answer.
COMPREHENDING AND RESPONDING
1. Do you think the tone of this poem is humorous, serious or both? Refer to the poem in support of your answer.
2. Explain your answer.
3. Why do you think the radio waves drifting into space are ‘from a generation ago’? Explain your answer.
4. What point do you think the poet is making about the universe with the simile ‘Drifting to the edge of what doesn’t end,// Like the air inside a balloon’? Explain your answer.
5. Refer to the poem in support of your answer.
6. Do you think the speaker considers it wise for us to invent more telescopes, to venture into outer space and to try to make contact with alien life? Refer to the poem in support of your answer.
7. How might the physical appearance of aliens differ from human beings, according to the poem?
8. Do you think ‘Mi casa es su casa’ would be an appropriate greeting for aliens if they were ever to come to Earth? Refer to the poem in support of your answer.
9. uncertain or cautious? Support your answer with reference to the poem.
10. Compare this poem to ‘The Universe as Primal Scream’ under three of the following headings: theme, tone, use of simile and metaphor, use of humour.
11. What theme or themes can you identify in this poem? Refer to the poem in support of your answer.