Need help with this--

'Describe two figures of speech and how they helped you see things differently in the poem 'Beware: Do Not Read This Poem'

Thanks
-MC

http://www.csuchico.edu/~pkittle/294/reed.html

The links at the bottom of this webpage should help you.

and

http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/poetry/beware.html
The text of the poem is undoubtedly more accurate here than in the first link, but you'll see the stanzas and organization better in the first link.

You might also click on Figurative Language at the bottom of the first linked poem -- there are many ideas there.

Sure! To describe two figures of speech in the poem "Beware: Do Not Read This Poem" and explain how they help you see things differently, you will first need to read and analyze the poem.

Here's how you can do that:

1. Read and understand the poem: Read the poem "Beware: Do Not Read This Poem" by Ishmael Reed carefully. Pay attention to the overall theme, tone, and content.

2. Identify figures of speech: As you read the poem, look for any language or phrases that stand out and deviate from their literal meaning. These figures of speech can include similes, metaphors, personification, hyperbole, and others.

3. Analyze the figures of speech: Once you identify the figures of speech used in the poem, analyze how they contribute to the overall meaning or message. Consider the effect on the reader and how they might evoke emotions or provide a different perspective.

4. Select two figures of speech: Choose two figures of speech that particularly stood out to you and helped you see things differently. Make sure you understand what the figures of speech mean.

Now, to provide an example response:

In the poem "Beware: Do Not Read This Poem," two figures of speech that stand out are metaphors and personification.

Figure of speech #1: Metaphor. In the line "for this is my poem for America," the poet uses a metaphor by equating the poem with America itself. This metaphor helps me see the poem not just as a literary work, but as a representation of the American experience. It highlights the poet's commentary on the state of the nation and invites me to look at the poem from a broader social and political perspective.

Figure of speech #2: Personification. In the line "It is the poet who makes you see things," the poet personifies the poet, attributing the ability to make the reader see things to the poem. This personification changes my perspective on the poem because it emphasizes the power of poetry to shape our understanding and perception. It suggests that the poem has a life of its own and can influence our thoughts and emotions.

By examining these two figures of speech, I am able to appreciate the poem from a different angle, considering its symbolic meaning and the transformative effect it can have on the reader.

Remember, the figures of speech and their impact may vary depending on the interpretation of the reader. This is just an example response based on possible figures of speech in the poem "Beware: Do Not Read This Poem."