In "Away," Paul Laurence Dunbar uses a repetitive structure to emphasize the speaker's deep desire to escape. The repetition of "Away, away" creates a rhythmic longing, suggesting an urgency in the speaker's wish to leave their current situation. Additionally, the contrasting images of nature, like the "overgrown sun-dapple wood" and “towering ash,” evoke a sense of peace that the speaker hopes to find. This structure reinforces the theme of longing for freedom and tranquility in the face of pain.
Feature
Longing
by Paul Laurence Dunbar
Away
Away, away I would go if I could,
Perhaps to an overgrown sun-dapple wood;
Away, away I would fly in a flash,
If I thought peace awaited under a towering ash.
Away, away you would wish me go too,
If only the pain of my staying still was known to you;
Away, away you would bid me farewell,
And on my wellbeing, you’d never again dwell.
"Longing" by Paul Laurence Dunbar
Question
Use the poem to answer the question.
In 3–5 short and small sentences, use effective reasoning to explain a conclusion you can draw from the structure of “Away.” Base your conclusion in part on the structure of the poem.
(4 points)
Short Answer Rubric (4 points)
Points Awarded Criteria
4
The answer is very clear.
The answer is fully supported by details.
There may be a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.
3
The answer is mostly clear.
The answer is supported by mostly relevant details.
There are a few errors in grammar, usage, or mechanics. Errors do not interfere with meaning.
2
The answer is somewhat clear.
Details are weak or not related.
There are some errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.
1
The answer is not clear.
There are few or no supporting details.
There are many errors in grammar, usage, and mechanics. Errors interfere with meaning.
0 The question is not answered.
Skip to navigation
1 answer
1 answer