Paper 1: Close Reading
How we got here: In the quest to legitimize poetry, there’s always been a voice demanding
structure. What is poetry if not rigid structure and wordplay? How can we have an artform that
doesn’t adhere to the rules of what art is? The quintessential poet is a vagabond, either a beggar
or someone who’s made a living doing something else. What value do poets have to a society
with bigger problems to worry about? Is there a value?
Some context: Anne Sexton is considered to be one of the original “Confessional Poets.” Her
work, along with the poetry of Sylvia Plath, Robert Lowell, and others, reaches out to connect
with readers under highly uncommon circumstances. Her poetry is intended to appeal to the part
of us that lives in a real world and doesn’t care much for social mores. But Sidney’s fight bears
repeating: if poetry is helpless and in need of defense, should that apply to all poetry? Can we
find something valuable in things that seem kind of rambly or trashy? Is there any message worth
digging out of this?
The assignment: In 4-6 pages, apply your analysis of Anne Sexton’s poetry in the form of a close
reading essay. When you wrote your response essays for Sexton, you chose a poem from the
packet. Use the space of this essay to utilize your annotations and present a thesis-driven essay
arguing your perspective. Review your chosen poem in terms of content and construction.
**If you did not submit a response paper for Anne Sexton, please choose a poem that was not
discussed in class. The content of your essay should be your own ideas and not a summary of
someone else’s. This is a conversation between you and the primary text. Please do not use
outside sources for this assignment.
While preparing your analysis, consider the issues that may matter. What methods does Sexton
use to speak about taboos among a mixed audience? If you argue that her attempts are
unsuccessful, where do they fail? If your perspective is that she is speaking for someone who
deserves to be heard, how does the text support your claims? Look at every line with a critical
eye and explain what you see. The why is more important than the what in this case. This is a
paper expressing your perspective about your poem of choice.
Remember to parse your source text for everything it has to offer. Relate your interpretation of
the source material, and be sure to think critically about the needs of people who disagree with
yourself as well. Dig deeply enough to establish connections. And don’t forget to make sure to
state and argue a thesis.
If you’re still struggling with the concept of Close Reading after our class discussions, Harvard
University provides a step-by-step guide for reference:
http://writingcenter.fas.harvard.edu/pages/how-do-close-reading
THe poems:ghosts
Some ghosts are women,
niether abstract nor pale,
their breastsas limp as killed.
Not witches,but ghosts
who come,moving their useless arms
like forsaken servants.
Not all ghosts are women,
I have seen others;
fat,white-bellied men,
wearing their genitals like old rags.
Not devils,but ghosts.
This one thumps barefoot,lurching
above my bed.
But that isn’t all.
Some ghosts are children.
Not angels,but ghosts;
curling like pink tea cups
on any pillow , or kicking,
showing thier innocent bottoms,wailing
for Lucifer.
