The Lockless Door (Peiyi's Post)

The Lockless Door (1923)
Robert Frost


It went many years,


But at last came a knock,

And I thought of the door

With no lock to lock.



I blew out the light,

I tip-toed the floor,

And raised both hands

In prayer to the door.



But the knock came again.

My window was wide;

I climbed on the sill

And descended outside.



Back over the sill

I bade a 'Come in'

To whatever the knock

At the door may have been.



So at a knock

I emptied my cage

To hide in the world

And alter with age.
 
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This poem may be introduced to a Sec 3 (Express) class.
Students are expected to have a basic understanding of literary techniques, including the form, diction of a poem, and the metaphors used.
Through this poem, students will learn how form and the use of imagery may contribute to the mood of a poem, thus effectively conveying the emotions of the persona.
 
1) What do you think is the situation being described in the poem?
- This question aims to prepare the students for further analysis of the poem by making sure that they are able to comprehend the scene being described.
2) How do you think the persona feels in the poem?
- In understanding the emotions of the persona, students will then be able to understand the mood that is created in the poem.
3) What is the image being conjured in the poem? Do the structure of the poem or the choice of words contribute to the overall feel of the poem? If so, what are some words or images that you feel are important in conveying the mood of the poem?
- This question requires the students to make a link between the form of the poem, the diction, imagery and the mood of the poem.
4) Do you think the tone of the persona is successful in conveying the mood of the poem? Why?