In-Depth Notes on Writing About Poetry

Introduction to Writing About Poetry

• Introduced by Tim Frus from "The Garden of English".

• Focus on writing about the poem "Ozymandias".

• Importance of prior videos for foundational knowledge.

Writing Process Overview

• Unconventional Method: Start with body paragraph topic sentences instead of thesis statements.

  • This differs from traditional essay writing strategies.

• Topic Sentence Definition: The first sentence of each body paragraph; acts as a contract with the reader.

• Thesis Statement: Typically the last sentence of the introduction; encompasses the essay's main idea.

Importance of Topic Sentences

• Guidance for Writing: Well-structured topic sentences make writing paragraphs easier.

  • Each topic sentence should relate to the overarching thesis.

Templates for Topic Sentences

• Four Templates: Typically, aim to produce three body paragraphs.

  

• The conclusion can synthesize ideas from body paragraphs.

• Availability of templates and examples in video description.

Writing Chronological Essays

• Chronological Order: Ensures clarity in literary analysis.

• When discussing "Ozymandias", reinforce connections to literary elements while correlating to the prompt.

Example Topic Sentences

1. First Topic Sentence:

   • "Shelley begins by presenting a reflective first-person frame narrative and includes multiple instances of caesura, suggesting that the fractured structure of the sonnet symbolizes the present shattered state of the poetical monument and the break in time between its inception and the traveler's viewing."

   • Literary Elements: Frame narrative, caesura, symbolism, broken time structure.

   • Analysis Focus: Relationship between power/pride and time's impact on the monument.

2. Second Topic Sentence:

   • "The speaker then shifts to contrasting the negative attributes of the ruler with the power of the artist, showcasing that though the tyrant may have had authority at one point in history, the artist's power to convey his message has lasted longer."

   • Literary Techniques: Shifts, contrasts, characterization, universal themes.

   • Complexity: The word "though" adds depth, suggesting a nuanced examination of power.

3. Third Topic Sentence:

   • "The speaker follows this by recounting a boastful claim, revealing the viciously arrogant and tyrannical nature of the Pharaoh."

   • Focus: Characterization through a quote from the Pharaoh's past.

4. Fourth Topic Sentence (Conclusion):

   • "The speaker concludes by contrasting the bold claims of the memorialized tyrant with the desolate land surrounding the ancient ruins, illustrating that only art has the power to overcome the inevitable destruction that comes at the hands of time."

   • Literary Analysis: Highlights the contrast between power and decay, culminating in a universal insight about art's endurance.

Conclusion and Next Steps

• Summary of Process: Effective topic sentences facilitate easier paragraph writing and clearer arguments.

• Next Video: Construction of the thesis statement to follow these developed topic sentences.