We Wear the Mask Questions

“We Wear the Mask” Questions

1. Explain the metaphor in the poem? What is it a metaphor for?

2. What consistency do you notice in the rhythm and rhyme scheme of the poem? Do you believe the is done on purpose? Why or why not?

3. In the last line of stanza 1 the word “mouth” is used as a verb, what does myriad subtleties mean?

4. How is this poem a paradox? (How does it seemingly contradict itself?)

5. What alliteration is noticeable in the poem?

6. What is the author’s message?

“Sympathy” Questions

1. What is the rhyme scheme of the poem?

2. Explain the metaphor in the poem?

3. Why do you believe to be the theme of this poem?

4. Take special notice of the way Dunbar describes nature in the first stanza. Why do you think he does this?

5. Choose 5 words from the first stanza that imply peace and serenity. Choose 5 words from stanza 2 and 3 that imply pain and create a negative atmosphere. Why is Dunbar trying to accomplish by doing this?

6. Give an example today of people who can be compared to the caged bird?