Karen Roof

June 17, 2003

Dropin #1:  Robert Frost, America’s Poet

Introduction:

Robert Frost, often referred to as “America’s Poet,” is author of a wide variety of famous poems, including “Mending Wall” and “The Road Not Taken.”  Recipient of numerous rewards and honors, Frost writes about nature and humanity, with much symbolism and hints to religion.

Information:

Ketzle.com is a site constructed by Jeff Ketzle, son of an accomplished English teacher, and a man quite knowledgeable in terms of Robert Frost and his poetry.  Included on this website are links both to Frost’s biographical information, as well as to many of his poems.  The list of poetry included on the site is arranged in the following categories:  A Boy’s Will, North of Boston, Mountain Interval, New Hampshire and West-running Brook. 

Activity: 

Explore the web page on Robert Frost found in Ketzle.com, at http://ketzle.com/frost.  Read the biographical information, and skim over the list of poems found on the site.  Select one poem from each category, and answer the following questions:

1. What type of poem is it?
2. What is the poem about?
3. Do you notice any symbolism in the poem?  What does it mean/what is Frost referring to through the use of the symbolism?
4. Does the poem seem to have any particular message?    

Pay attention to the biographical information you read.  List two awards received by Frost and tell for what it was he was honored.