In this 45-minute task, you will complete two parts:

Question

Part 1: Mini-Analysis (20 minutes)
Read or revisit "To This Day" by Shane Koyczan. Then answer the following:
Theme: What is the message of the poem? What is Koyczan trying to say about bullying, pain, or self-image? (2-3 sentences)
Poetic Devices: Identify two literary devices used in the poem (like repetition, imagery, metaphor, simile, alliteration, etc.). Explain how each one helps strengthen the message. (2-3 sentences each)
Tone: What is the tone of the poem? Does it change throughout? Describe how it feels and what effect that has. (2-3 sentences)
Be specific. Use examples from the poem to support your answers.
Part 2: Inspired Original Poem (25 minutes)
Now, write your own poem inspired by To This Day. You can write about a time you felt misunderstood, judged, or empowered or reflect on a challenge you've overcome.
Your poem must:
Be at least 10 lines long

Answer 1

Part 1: Mini-Analysis

Theme:
In "To This Day," Shane Koyczan conveys the deep and lasting impact of bullying on individuals' self-image and mental health. He emphasizes that the scars left by words and actions can endure long after the initial incidents, highlighting the importance of empathy and understanding in combating this pervasive issue.

Poetic Devices:

1. Imagery: Koyczan employs vivid imagery throughout the poem, creating powerful visual snapshots that evoke strong emotions. For instance, he describes the "pencil in the back of your throat," a striking image that illustrates the pain of being silenced and oppressed. This imagery reinforces the poem’s message about the tangible effects of bullying on one's identity and voice.

2. Repetition: The repetition of phrases like "To this day" serves to underline the persistence of the pain experienced by those who have been bullied. This device emphasizes the lasting effects of their experiences, creating a rhythmic urgency in the poem that invites readers to reflect on the ongoing nature of such emotional turmoil.

Tone:
The tone of the poem shifts from somber and reflective to empowering and hopeful. Initially, there is a weighty atmosphere as Koyczan addresses the pain of bullying, capturing feelings of despair and isolation. However, as the poem progresses, the tone evolves to one of resilience and strength, culminating in a call for acceptance and understanding. This shift fosters a sense of empowerment that encourages listeners to rise above their struggles.

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Part 2: Inspired Original Poem

Unseen Struggles

In the shadow of laughter, where secrets reside,
I wore my mask hollow, a smile I’d confide.
Words like arrows, they pierced my soul,
A whispered belittling, I lost all control.

In mirrors, reflections showed scars etched in light,
A battle within me fought day after night.
Yet from ashes, I gathered my broken pieces,
Each shard a reminder—the pain only ceases.

With every heartbeat, I rise from the fall,
For strength lies in stories, we all share this call.
So let’s break the silence, let kindness unfold,
Through empathy’s warmth, our true selves behold.