How should I begin my first paragraph when I'm trying to interpret a poem? The poem is Nothing Gold Can Stay by Robert Frost.Thanks
DON'T start any paper's first draft by writing the introduction! How can you introduce a paper that you haven't written yet?
Follow the writing process, whether you're writing for science, history, English, or whatever:
Prewriting: brainstorm, research, plan, outline, thesis statement
Writing: write first draft by starting with section II of your outline; write introduction after the body of the paper is written; write the conclusion last.
Polishing: revise, concentrating first on the body of the paper, then the intro, then the concl (revision = making sure ideas are logical and sequential and support your thesis); proofread (spelling, grammar, usage, etc.)
Do you have a thesis yet? Have you done your brainstorming (and maybe research) yet? Have you written an outline?
http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/catalogue.html#org
from http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/catalogue.html
http://www.angelfire.com/wi/writingprocess/
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/
Check in the Essay & Research Paper Level.
Let us know.
And here are some sites to help with writing about poetry:
http://www.unc.edu/depts/wcweb/handouts/poetry-explication.html
http://www.uncp.edu/home/canada/work/markport/best/study/poetry.htm
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/literature.htm
When starting to interpret a poem, it's essential to establish a strong opening paragraph that sets the tone and provides a clear direction for your analysis. Here's a step-by-step approach to help you begin your first paragraph when interpreting "Nothing Gold Can Stay" by Robert Frost:
1. Read the poem multiple times: Begin by thoroughly reading the poem to get familiar with its structure, language, and themes. Pay attention to the emotions or ideas that arise while reading and highlight key passages that stand out to you.
2. Introduce the poet and poem: Start your first paragraph by providing some background information on the poet, Robert Frost, and briefly introduce the poem "Nothing Gold Can Stay." Mention its publication date, any context surrounding its creation, and its significance in Frost's body of work.
3. Present an engaging hook or introduction: Grab your reader's attention with a thoughtful and engaging hook that establishes the relevance or universal appeal of the poem. Consider using an anecdote, a compelling quote, or a thought-provoking question to draw your reader in.
4. Provide a brief summary of the poem: Offer a concise summary of "Nothing Gold Can Stay" that covers the main points of the poem without delving into deep analysis. Highlight the central themes or images that Frost presents, such as the fleeting nature of beauty or the inevitability of change.
5. State your thesis statement: The thesis statement should encapsulate your main argument or interpretation of the poem. It should be concise and specific, setting the groundwork for the analysis to come. Avoid general statements and instead focus on a clear angle or perspective you will be exploring.
For example, your explanatory first paragraph could look something like this:
"Robert Frost's poem 'Nothing Gold Can Stay,' published in 1923, speaks to the transient nature of beauty and the inevitability of change. With its concise and vivid language, the poem presents vivid images that evoke a sense of fleeting beauty and the longing to hold on to what is ephemeral. Through a close examination of the natural world, Frost invites readers to reflect upon the transient nature of life's precious moments and the implications of their impermanence. This interpretation will explore how Frost utilizes poetic devices such as imagery, symbolism, and word choice to convey his profound insights into the temporal nature of existence."
Remember, this is just a general approach, and you can adjust it to suit your specific interpretation and writing style.