Poetry Readings

We have started reading poetry for English 1302. I enjoy most poetry, more so now then ever before. I think I’m reading it with more critical thinking involved, rather then just reading it as a way to tickle my ears with the rhythm and rhyme of the words. It has helped to make the poetry more enjoyable after looking up background information in connection to the author. It takes a little more work, but I think it has been worth the effort. I now have more appreciation for the author and their poetry.

Our next paper will be on one of the poems in our anthology book and I have chosen to write about Christina Rossetti and her poem, Uphill. I started reading about her life and other works she has written. I started a file on my computer and it's full of information with a basic outline I’ll use to break down the poem, line by line. It’s easy to see her spirituality in this poem and I hope to use it to plant a seed in the hearts of my classmates.

Uphill (1861)

Does the road wind uphill all the way?
Yes, to the very end.
Will the day’s journey take the whole long day?
From morn to night, my friend.

But is there for the night a resting-place?
A roof for when the slow dark hours begin.
May not the darkness hide it from my face?
You cannot miss that inn.

Shall I meet other wayfarers at night?
Those who have gone before.
Then must I knock, or call when just in sight?
They will not keep you standing at the door.

Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?
Of labor you shall find the sum.
Will there be beds for me and all who seek?
Yea, beds for all who come.