Question

Date:      

DEVELOPMENT OF THEME

In a poem, the author’s message is the theme of the poem. The theme, or the deeper meaning
that the poem expresses, is not usually stated directly. Rather, it is suggested through the poet’s
use of certain details and poetic elements. The following poetic elements can help readers
identify a poem’s theme:

Repetition refers to words and phrases that are repeated in the poem.
Repeated words and phrases often point to the message the poet wants to
convey in a poem.
Imagery is language that uses images. An image is a phrase that appeals
to one or more of the senses. Imagery can be used to express the theme of
a poem.
A symbol is an object, a person, an animal, a place, or an image that
stands for something larger than itself—usually representing an abstract
idea.

DIRECTIONS: Read the following poem. Then, answer the questions.

Why?
by H.P. Stevens

Do you know why the rabbits are caught in the snare
Or the tabby cat’s shot on the tiles?
Why the tigers and lions creep out of their lair?
Why an ostrich will travel for miles?
Do you know why a sane man will whimper and cry
And weep o’er a ribbon or glove?
Why a cook will put sugar for salt in a pie?
Do you know? Well, I’ll tell you, it’s Love.

1. What phrase is repeated three times in this poem?

2. What is the theme of the poem? How does repetition engage the reader with the theme?

Answer 1

1. The phrase "Do you know" is repeated three times.

2. Theme: Love causes people and animals to behave in strange, surprising, or irrational ways.
How repetition engages the reader: Repeating "Do you know" (and the repeated use of "Why") creates a questioning, curious tone that draws the reader into the poem’s puzzle. The repeated questions link the varied examples and build anticipation for the answer; when the speaker finally names "Love," the repetition makes that revelation more striking and satisfying.