Notes on Writing Poetry Essays and Thesis Statements

Introduction to Poetry Writing and Analysis

• Reading poetry can be challenging; writing about it can be harder.

• Previous videos offer tips for reading and writing about poetry, useful for AP Lit exam preparation.

• It is recommended to watch the previous videos for better understanding.

Thesis Statements vs. Topic Sentences

• Writing topic sentences for poetry essays may come before drafting the thesis.

• Example provided: Topic sentences were written in response to the "Ozymandias" prompt.

Thesis Template

• The template has three main components:

1. Inclusion of Poetic Elements: Must include specific poetic elements.

2. Textual Understandings: Understanding based on the elements included.

3. Universal Insight: A broader message or theme that ties the poem to universal concepts.

• Adjust the template as needed based on personal or teacher preferences.

• It may not be necessary to list poetic elements in the thesis for some prompts.

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Adapting the Template for "Ozymandias"

• The specific prompt is about how Shelley's poem explores the relationship between power, pride, and time.

• Fill in the first and last parts of the thesis while adjusting the middle based on the prompt.

Building the Thesis Statement

• Start with the title, author, and genre as well as literary elements identified in prior topic sentences.

• Example thesis construction:

• "In 'Ozymandias,' Percy Bysshe Shelley develops a frame narrative, contrasts the works of a tyrant and an artist, and highlights a boastful yet presently unsupported claim, ultimately illustrating that though kingdoms may fall at the hands of time, the communicative power of an artist's creative talents will not."

• Adjustments can be made to avoid redundancy and enhance clarity, such as substituting words like "develops" instead of "presents."

Alternative Thesis for Different Writing Styles

• For those who prefer less emphasis on poetic elements:

• "In 'Ozymandias,' Percy Bysshe Shelley illustrates that though kingdoms may fall at the hands of time, the communicative power of an artist's creative talents will not."

• Important to adapt the thesis structure to personal writing preferences, including removing sections that do not apply.

Conclusion

• Writers are encouraged to mold the thesis template to fit personal needs.

• Additional resources on integrating quotations in poetry essays are available.