Reading and Writing Workshop

Exploring Poetry’s Role in Society and Culture
Session 1: Poetry in Society – The Voice of War and Duty
Anchor Poem:
“The Charge of the Light Brigade” by Alfred, Lord Tennyson
A dramatic recounting of a British military blunder that turned into a nationalistic ode to courage and obedience.
Read Here:
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45319/the-charge-of-the-light-brigade
Discussion Topics:

• How does Tennyson portray heroism?
• What role does poetry play in shaping public opinion about war?
• How does repetition and meter contribute to the poem’s message?

Writing Activity: Write a poem or prose reflection that captures a modern example of bravery or sacrifice in society. Consider how tone and rhythm influence meaning.

Session 2: Poetry and Culture – Rituals, Tradition, and Community
Anchor Poem:
“Song of Myself” (Excerpts) by Walt Whitman
A celebration of the self that connects with a universal human experience and American identity.
Read Here:
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45477/song-of-myself-1892-version
Discussion Topics:

• How does Whitman weave cultural identity into his poetic voice?
• What is the relationship between the individual and the collective in Whitman’s work?
• How can poetry reflect national or community values?

Writing Activity: Write a poetic “snapshot” of a cultural or family tradition. Focus on imagery and sensory detail that communicates the deeper meaning of the ritual.

Session 3: Poets and Their Impact – Shaping National Identity
Anchor Poem:
“I Hear America Singing” by Walt Whitman
A joyful celebration of American workers and their individual contributions to a collective national spirit.
Read Here:
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/45480/i-hear-america-singing
Discussion Topics:

• How does Whitman use cataloging (listing) as a poetic technique?
• What societal roles are highlighted, and why?
• How does Whitman’s view of America compare to contemporary perspectives?

Writing Activity: Choose a community (school, town, online space) and write a poem in Whitman’s style, celebrating the different roles or people within that group.

Optional Extension Session: Poetry as Protest and Commentary
​Anchor Poem:
“If We Must Die” by Claude McKay
A defiant sonnet written in the context of racial violence and resistance.
Read Here:
https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/44694/if-we-must-die
Discussion Topics:

• How can poetry be used as a tool for resistance?
• What makes this sonnet structure powerful for a protest poem?
• In what ways is this poem still relevant today?

Writing Activity: Write a short poem that responds to a current social or political issue that matters to you. Consider using a traditional form like a sonnet or free verse with strong rhetorical elements.