I went out to the hazel wood,

Question

Because a fire was in my head,

And cut and peeled a hazel wand,

And hooked a berry to a thread;

And when white moths were on the wing,

And moth-like stars were flickering out,

I dropped the berry in a stream

And caught a little silver trout.



When I had laid it on the floor

I went to blow the fire a-flame,

But something rustled on the floor,

And someone called me by my name:

It had become a glimmering girl

With apple blossom in her hair

Who called me by my name and ran

And faded through the brightening air.



Though I am old with wandering

Through hollow lands and hilly lands,

I will find out where she has gone,

And kiss her lips and take her hands;

And walk among long dappled grass,

And pluck till time and times are done,

The silver apples of the moon,

The golden apples of the sun.

—“The Song of Wandering Aengus,”
William Butler Yeats

Which statement best describes the value of reading the poem aloud more than once to improve fluency?

What tells the reader that Aengus is the speaker in the poem?

How can a reader show Aengus's voice?

What unique part of this text affects fluency?

Answer 1

Reading the poem "The Song of Wandering Aengus" by William Butler Yeats aloud more than once can significantly enhance fluency by allowing the reader to grasp the rhythm, cadence, and musicality of the language. This practice helps in capturing the emotional tone and nuances of the poem, enabling a deeper connection to its themes and imagery.

1. Which statement best describes the value of reading the poem aloud more than once to improve fluency? Reading the poem aloud multiple times helps the reader internalize the rhythm and flow of the verses, leading to a more confident and expressive delivery. This repetition allows the reader to understand the emotional undertones and enhance comprehension.

2. What tells the reader that Aengus is the speaker in the poem? The references to actions and feelings connected to Aengus, the use of first-person pronouns ("I," "my"), and the personal experiences described throughout indicate that Aengus is the speaker. Lines that mention Aengus' journey and desires reveal his identity and perspective.

3. How can a reader show Aengus's voice? A reader can show Aengus's voice by emphasizing the lyrical quality of the poem, using varied intonations to convey the poem's emotional depth, and capturing the wistfulness and longing present in Aengus's quest. Pausing at commas and line breaks can also help to highlight the poem's rhythm and enhance its storytelling aspect.

4. What unique part of this text affects fluency? The poem's use of rich imagery, metaphor, and varied line lengths contributes to its unique fluency challenges. Phrases like "the silver apples of the moon, / The golden apples of the sun" create a whimsical and rhythmic effect that can be challenging to deliver smoothly. The blend of narrative storytelling and lyrical elements requires careful pacing to maintain the flow while engaging with the poem's thematic weight.