explicating a poem

Essay 1 asks you to analyze a poem minutely. By discussing the poems images, voice, and other literary devices, and possibly the mechanics of its construction, you will plum the work for the depth of its meaning and those ideas which may not be obvious on a first reading. Task A definition for explication might be, “to make plain or clear; explain; interpret.” The word comes from the Latin explicare, which means, “to unfold.” You can think of this assignment as asking you to “unpack” a poem, opening it up for the reader and discussing the ideas that are packed within. You need to select a poem that has not been assigned as a reading so far in the course. You may choose any poem by any author in the Norton Anthology from the Romantic Period (or the Victorian, with permission from the instructor). The poem you choose must be at least 8 lines long. If you choose a longer work, you should concentrate on a small section of the poem—no more than 20 to 25 lines or so. You will then write an essay in which you discuss the poem’s ideas, imagery, and possible message, focusing on what you believe is the overall meaning (or at least a possible overall meaning) of the work. An explication will generally follow these guidelines: It “unfolds” the poem by explaining in detail how the work communicates to the reader. It considers significant details and suggestions in the poem, looking beyond the obvious. It is not a paraphrase (that is, a restatement “in your own words”). Instead, it is an explanation of the way the work speaks to the reader. It shows how each part of the poem contributes to the overall meaning of the work. Thus, each part of the analysis must relate to a clear, central idea in your essay. It generally works from the start of the poem or passage to the end. You may use outside sources for this essay, but you are in no way required to do so, nor do you automatically earn more credit by doing so. If you do choose to consult outside sources, you will need to cite them correctly in MLA format. Evaluation Papers will be assessed based on the criteria outlined in the Assessment Standards. Critical analysis, insight, and clarity will be key to your success. Format The final copy of your paper should be at least three full pages long (longer papers are fine). The finished draft should be typed in 12pt. Times (double spaced) and in MLA format. You will post your drafts in the discussion board for your group; you final draft (in .doc or .docx format) will be posted to this assignment folder.