"Gift-Wrapped Fathers" is a poem by Eduardo (Echo) Martinez about an imprisoned father's longing for connection with his son. What themes, or messages about human life, are expressed in this poem? Write a two- or three-paragraph Thematic Analysis in which you identify one main theme of the poem, supporting your analysis with at least two examples from the poem. When selecting the examples you will cite, consider the poet's use of imagery, point of view, similes, and metaphors.
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As you write:
Use precise words and vocabulary, including accurate use of literary terms.
Maintain an appropriately formal tone.
Vary your sentences to create a rhythmic flow in your writing.
Be sure your spelling and grammar are correct.
The poet’s use of [specific word] in the poem establishes a tone of…
The overall style of the poem is characterized by…
One notable aspect of the poet’s vocabulary is the recurring use of…
Through the poet’s choice of [adjective] language, a sense of [emotion] is conveyed.
The poet’s selection of [type of imagery] creates a vivid portrayal of…
Use the RACE Strategy
Fill out the “RACE” graphic organizer below to help you plan a complete response. Be sure to balance elaboration (your own explanation) with evidence (details from the text). Elaboration is shown in yellow and evidence is shown in green.
Use the RACE Strategy
Fill out the “RACE” graphic organizer below to help you plan a complete response. Be sure to balance elaboration (your own explanation) with evidence (details from the text). Elaboration is shown in yellow and evidence is shown in green.
Restate the question and
Answer the question.
What is the theme or the message about human life, are expressed in this poem
The overall message about human life can be seen as a reflection on the impact of the poet's father, who is presented as a distant figure wrapped in mystery, simultaneously known and unknown.
Cite two pieces of evidence from the text.
Explain your evidence.
The first piece of evidence comes from the lines, "The sound of keys. / Dad ready to appear from around the corner! / To watch him, he was a magnificent creature, / A radiant God behind cold steel doors." These lines depict the poet's father as a figure of awe and reverence, suggesting a longing for connection and a desire to understand him. The use of the metaphor "a radiant God" further underscores the profound impact the father has on the poet's life.
The second piece of evidence can be found in the lines, "We learned to hunt and / Fight as children. / The Papi who shoed horses / Versus the Papi who played pan / Back in the Sierra gave / The keys to the son of exiles." Here, the poet highlights the multifaceted nature of his father, who was both a skilled worker and a musician. The contrasting images of "hunting and fighting" and the gentle act of "playing pan" suggest that the father's impact on the poet's life is complex and varied, encompassing both strength and tenderness.
Through these examples, the theme of longing for connection with a distant father figure is evident in the poem. The poet emphasizes the profound impact his father has had on his life, depicting him as both a mysterious presence and a source of inspiration. This theme speaks to the universal human experience of longing for a meaningful connection with one's parents or caregivers, despite the barriers that may exist.