Hi there,
I desperately need help in the analysis of the poem "liquid paper". Anything would help. You can see a copy of this poem at: [www.geocities.com] />
I am trying to interpret this poem but it's very difficult, and I need to write a five page report on such a short Poem! Anything helps! Thank you!
-Ashley

Try font size 18!

Anyway, have a look at the concept of Tabula Rasa (clean slate): [www.geocities.com] /> [dictionary.reference.com] />
The first paragraph refers to the catholic absolution of sins. Which means that one can start with a clean slate.

The liquid paper refers to well, liquid paper:
[www.ideafinder.com] />
The second paragraph goes into abusive methods to reach this state: drugs. And how unlikely things can be used by people (after shave), which indicates a kind of desperation. His topsergeant was willing to try anything to empty his mind. And it worked, but only until he got to germany (heidelberg) (I think).

Then he links the poem back to the beginning by referring to god : "if I were god..."

also note the two occurences of the house where he is born / the house where we were born. I think it symbolizes a clean slate.

Does this help at all? It is not an easy assignment.

Ashley, the key to writing this essay or any essay is beginning with an outline.

Decide on the theme of your essay first, after having read the poems and knowing what it says. The statement of your theme should be in the introduction of your essay. You might say something such as this: " This poem deals with the concept of forgiveness." Then go on to tell the reader what topics you will discuss. Divide the essay into several different topics. For instance:

1. Language/common or formal
2. Rhyme pattern/lack of rhyme
3. Connotation/what is implied
4. Effect on the reader/ emotional response of the reader
5. Tone/ is the poem straight-forward or symbolic, humorous or satirical
6. Subject matter


Use examples from the poem to illustrate each of these points. Be specific, quote lines from the poem to give the reader an idea of what you're talking about. The more specific you are in giving examples, the easier it will be to write a specified number of words.

Les

No, no, font 18 is too obvious- maybe 14!

pam

Good one, Pam, I wish I'd thought of that for my philosophy of education final.
Of course I would have needed a bigger bottle of "white out" for that


Les

and as a teacher once told me, don't be afraid to state the obvious. Try to write it for someone who hasn't read the poem and who doesn't know anything about poetry. Maybe a little sister or brother or parent?

Ashley,

Another point could be the '7 years.' It's often said that over a seven year period, every cell in our body is renewed.

pam

Talk about the poet's life a bit, too- that should burn some paper.