1. Re-read “The Poison Tree,” paying close attention to the rhymes in the poem. In the space below, identify the poem’s rhyme scheme.
AABB in all four stanzas.
2. Count the number of syllables in each line of the poem, and identify/describe the meter. How does the meter contribute to the meaning of the poem?
Inconsistent finite meter throughout. Seven syllables in most lines.
3. Describe what happens to the speaker’s anger during the poem.
It festered, and grew into revenge causing his foe to die.
4. What does the speaker do at the end of the poem?
He uses the apple to tempt his foe and kills him.
5. Apples figure prominently in this poem. What do apples symbolize in our society?
Apples are generally thought of as sin due to the story or Adam and Eve.
6. What do apples symbolize in the poem?
In this poem the apple symbolizes revenge.
7. What extended metaphor is carried throughout the poem?
The tree, representing anger and wrath, growing more and more.
8. What lines or phrases help extend the poem’s main metaphor?
“and I watered it with fears.., and sunned it with smiles,”
9. Is the extended metaphor effective? Why or why not?
It is because it shows that when you continue to let wrath grow it will turn into revenge and cause harm.
10. Does this poem still ring true today? Explain your answer.
Yes, because people still keep their feelings to themselves which force them to grow and grow until they can’t keep hold of it; this can cause harm to oneself or others.
Have done a lot of work for you. Do mark me as brainly. Hope it helps you.
Thanks
