A two voice poem is a poem written and read using two voices. It is two poems with two narrator, yet it is about the same topic and it is read together. Typically they two voices have very different ideas or experiences with the same topic. Sometimes the narrators speak at the same time. Sometimes they say the same thing. Sometimes they say slightly different things. Other times they say the exact opposite. Other times they do not speak in unison. During these times they alternate speaking. When the narrators take turns speaking they usually telling their side, their feelings, their experiences which are usually opposite each other.
For example, a two voice poem about a snow day:
Narrator 1:
The snow is falling
So peaceful and white
It’s finally here
The perfect day without a fight
Narrator 2:
I hate the snow
It’s cold and wet and gray
I have to shovel
And can’t even go out to play
Narrator 1:
I love the snowball fights
And hot cocoa by the fire
It’s a day to relax
And let go of all the desire
Narrator 2:
I’m stuck inside all day
There’s nothing I can do
I hate the snow and all its mess
I wish it would just be through
Narrator 1:
The snow is so beautiful
It covers everything in sight
It’s a day to remember
And everything feels right
Narrator 2:
I can’t stand the snow
It’s such a hassle to brave
I’m counting down the hours
Till it finally goes away
Narrator 1 and 2 (together):
Two different views
On this snowy, wintery day
Love it or hate it,
It’s snowing either way.
Step 1: Understand the concept of a two-voice poem
A two-voice poem is a type of poetry that involves two separate voices or narrators. These narrators may have different perspectives, ideas, or experiences with the same topic. The poem is written and read together, with the two voices either speaking at the same time, saying the same thing, saying slightly different things, or even saying the exact opposite. The narrators may alternate speaking, expressing their own side, feelings, or experiences, which are often conflicting or opposite to each other.
Step 2: Identify the characteristics of a two-voice poem
- Two voices or narrators: The poem involves two distinct voices or speakers.
- Same topic: The narrators discuss or explore the same topic.
- Different perspectives: The narrators typically have different ideas, experiences, or viewpoints regarding the topic.
- Various speaking styles: The narrators may speak simultaneously, say the same thing, say slightly different things, or express opposing viewpoints.
- Alternating speaking: The narrators may take turns speaking, sharing their own side, feelings, or experiences.
- Emotional contrast: The narrators often express conflicting emotions or experiences that highlight their divergence.
Step 3: Analyze examples of a two-voice poem
Example 1:
Narrator 1: The ocean's waves crash, fierce and wild,
Narrator 2: The ocean's waves dance, gentle and mild.
Both: Yet we see its beauty, in different ways,
Alternating: I find peace, while you seek its power that sways.
Example 2:
Narrator 1: The city streets, vibrant and loud,
Narrator 2: The city streets, a constant crowd.
Both: But for me, it's a chance to find myself anew,
Alternating: While you drown in the chaos, feeling trapped and blue.
Example 3:
Narrator 1: The sun shining bright, warming my soul,
Narrator 2: The sun burning hot, taking its toll.
Both: The light brings joy, but only one finds delight,
Alternating: I revel in its warmth, while you seek shade from its might.
Step 4: Summarize the key aspects of a two-voice poem
In summary, a two-voice poem is a poetic form involving two narrators who express their perspectives, experiences, or emotions regarding the same topic. The narrators can either speak simultaneously, say the same thing, express contrasting viewpoints, or alternate speaking. Through this form, the poem showcases the differing or conflicting opinions, feelings, or interpretations of the narrators on the subject matter.