Discuss Tone- What is the tone of this poem "My papa's waltz" by theodore roethke? How does the poet convey this tone? Please provide at least three specific words / phrases that build the tone.

Answer 1

The tone of "My Papa's Waltz" by Theodore Roethke is a mixture of nostalgic affection and hints of disturbance. The poet conveys this tone through specific words and phrases that include:

1. "The hand that held my wrist": This phrase conveys a sense of control and physical force, suggesting a slightly abusive or rough nature to the waltz.

2. "Such waltzing was not easy": This line hints at the difficulty and awkwardness of the dance, possibly indicating a strained or imperfect relationship between the speaker and their father.

3. "My mother's countenance / Could not unfrown itself": This pair of lines suggests the mother's disapproval or concern about the dance, adding a layer of tension and unease to the poem.

Overall, the combination of affectionate memories of dancing with the father and undertones of discomfort and unease create a complex tone in "My Papa's Waltz."

Answer 2

different ones

Answer 3

Certainly! Here are three different specific words/phrases that build the tone of "My Papa's Waltz" by Theodore Roethke:

1. "beat time on my head": This phrase conveys a sense of physical violence or roughness in the dance, suggesting a slightly chaotic or aggressive tone.

2. "We romped until the pans / Slid from the kitchen shelf": This imagery of pans sliding off the shelf creates a sense of disorder and disruption, adding to the tone of instability and unpredictability in the poem.

3. "But I hung on like death": This phrase suggests a sense of desperation or clinging onto something despite difficulties, hinting at a deeper emotion or struggle within the speaker's relationship with their father.