You have just read “The Possessive” by Sharon Olds. How does the author’s use of language develop the speaker’s tone in the poem? Make sure your response is strong by: clearly answering the prompt. Including and explaining at least two pieces of relevant evidence. Using transitions to connect ideas.

Answer 1

The speaker's tone in Sharon Olds' poem "The Possessive" is one of anger and frustration. Olds uses language to emphasize the speaker's feelings of being trapped and powerless in the relationship. For example, the speaker's use of the word "possessive" in the title of the poem immediately conveys a sense of ownership and control. Additionally, the speaker's use of the phrase "I am his" in the first line of the poem further emphasizes the speaker's lack of autonomy in the relationship. Olds also uses language to emphasize the speaker's feelings of anger and resentment. For example, the speaker's use of the phrase "I am his, like a dog" conveys a sense of indignity and humiliation. Furthermore, the speaker's use of the phrase "I am his, like a slave" conveys a sense of powerlessness and oppression. Through her use of language, Olds effectively develops the speaker's tone of anger and frustration in the poem.