Terrance Hayes utilizes musical language in American Sonnets for My Past and Future Assassin as a gateway to write about the human experience and touch on timely, real-world topics regarding a number of social, cultural, and political issues. For this assignment, you will practice a research-based paper to speak on your interpretation of his messages. You will analyze the question: Is poetry relevant today? Why or Why Not? You will argue your point using cultural, social, and/or political significances along with the poetic elements the poets use to convey their messages.
Your primary source is American Sonnets for My Past and Future Assassin, and your secondary sources will be 3 articles of your choice. As we examine these readings, we will look at how Hayes explores his topics by finding what he says specifically about them— “race”, “class”, “love”, “grief” are all too broad. How does he narrow his approach, incorporate research, and explore why the topic matters?
Research & Required Sources: Conduct research on the book, artist, and the topics by using the following required sources in your paper:
Verses from at least 2 of Terrancy Hayes’ poems
At least 3 articles on your chosen cultural, social, or political topic
Optional: If you find any poems or essays on poems we not read this semester that speak to your topic, or are about the poet, or about your argument you feel strongly about, you are welcome to incorporate as a source as well.
Use 3rd Person
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