TPCASTT with Fifteen by William Stafford Analyzing the

TPCASTT with “Fifteen, ” by William Stafford Analyzing the poem to determine meaning (theme)

What is “TPCASTT”? �Title �Paraphrase �Connotation �Attitude �Shifts �Title �Theme

Title �Speculate (guess) what the poem might be about, based on its title.

Paraphrase �Now read the poem (pg. 699). �When you’re finished, paraphrase the poem (basically, rewrite the poem in your own words – line by line!)

Connotation �Connotation refers to the feelings and associations a word invokes in you. �For example, it’s typically OK to be called “thin. ” However, how do you feel being called “skinny, boney? ” Perhaps these words carry a “negative connotation” to them …

Connotation �When it comes to TPCASTT and poetry, connotation deals with how the words and language contribute to the meaning(s) of the poem.

Connotation �Time to take the plunge (yes, that is a metaphor) …

Connotation �First stanza �Symbolism in the very first verse: Why does the author mention a “bridge on Seventeenth”? � What is the symbolism of “high grass”? In other words, why do you think Stafford wrote that the motorcycle is in high grass? (Tip: Look beyond the literal. ) �Stanza theme:

Connotation �Second stanza �Imagery: Which words/phrases create vivid images for the reader? �In your opinion, how do these images make the protagonist feel about the motorcycle? �Think about how you feel when you see something majestic, beautiful. �Stanza theme:

Connotation �Third stanza �Imagination! How does the protagonist feel about possibly taking the motorcycle? �How might a person be feeling if he/she feels a “tremble” in his/her hand? �How would you feel about doing something forbidden? �Stanza theme:

Connotation �Fourth stanza �Why is the protagonist “Thinking” in the first verse/line? �In line 20, the motorcyclist “roared away. ” Which types of animals roar? What is Stafford trying to say about the motorcyclist and/or the bike? �What is significant about the motorcyclist calling the protagonist a “good man? ” �Stanza theme:

Attitude �Basically, we’re talking about tone – the attitude of the author toward his/her subject. �Diction (the author’s word choice) and imagery can help us to identify the author’s tone(s). �In your composition book, write “Imagery, ” then list the words and/or phrases in the poem that create images. �Next, identify an example of personification in the poem (hint: second stanza).

Attitude �Now, let’s identify this poem’s tone. �Think of the poem’s: - diction (word choice) - Imagery - Figurative language (e. g. personification, metaphor) �So 00000…………. What do you think the author’s attitude is in this poem?

Shifts �Shifts in the poem’s tone, writing style, punctuation, or structure can help give the reader a bit more insight into the poem. �Identify any shifts in tone, action, or structure within in the poem. �Why does Stafford separate the final verse from the rest of the poem? Why does he use the word “stood? ”

Title �Let’s revisit the title. What new insight does the title provide in understanding the poem?

Theme �Generally, theme of a poem is its message. �Identify the poem’s theme in one word or a phrase. �Thematic statement: What point/message might Stafford be trying to get across to the reader?

Expository response (short answer) �Answer the following prompt in a 4 - to 5 -sentence paragraph: *How will you face a major temptation when you are on the cusp of adulthood? �Consider this when developing your response: Will you weigh the morals and consequences of a risky decision, or will you succumb to your desires and rush in?

Expository response (short answer) �When constructing your short answer response, make sure to: 1. Answer the question directly in your first sentence. 2. Then, support your assertion in the other 3 -4 sentences.