Longing

Question

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 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.
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Answer 1

The poem "Away" by Paul Laurence Dunbar conveys a deep sense of longing and a desire for escape, which is reinforced by its structure. The repetition of the phrase "Away, away" emphasizes the speaker's urgent yearning to leave their current situation, suggesting that their emotional pain is overwhelming. Additionally, the consistent rhyme scheme lends a rhythmic quality to the poem, making the speaker's plea for peace and solace under the metaphorical "towering ash" all the more poignant. The structure highlights the contrast between the speaker's longing for freedom and the painful reality of their current state, enhancing the overall theme of yearning for a better existence.