Poetry Explication Worksheet

Instructions:

For this assignment, you should submit two files: one (1) poetry handout and one (1) response paper (no more than 500 words). The poetry handout you are to complete is attached to this assignment.

See the following steps:

1. Complete one poetry handout for either “A/Coltrane/Poem” or “Dear John, Dear Coltrane”; if you have already begun working on or completed handouts for both poems, as Dr. Washington originally assigned, then submit both poetry handouts and I will give you extra credit for the second one; and

2. Write a response to the following two questions:

– – – What are the similarities and/or differences (or both) in the ways that Sonia Sanchez and Michael S. Harper incorporate the musical influence of John Coltrane’s into their poems – “A/Coltrane/Poem” (Sanchez) and “Dear John, Dear Coltrane” (Harper)?

– – – Why was jazz – particularly the music of John Coltrane – so inspiring to writers and poets from the 1950s – 1960s? You may cite outside resources (such as articles or videos) in your response. ***As a contemporary reference, you should consider the way that Hip Hop changed the musical landscape in America and beyond. What, in your opinion, was the reason for its popularity – particularly among people of color? Which artists have the biggest impact, and why***