Directions: Read the poem given then identify the types of figurative language and poetical terminologies used within. Answer questions 1-7. I will plough the land,
Turning up the black soil.
I will ride upon this heaving surface
As a boat rides upon the water.
Even as a boat
Cleaving the water with an eager keel,
I have run a furrow1
Straight across the ridges.

I will sow down this field,
Scattering gems.
With both hands will I scatter
Quivering emeralds out of a bottomless pouch.

As I tread the loam2
My feet sink deep.
The black earth embraces my ankles
And clings to my bent knees.

I sing as I go
Scattering emeralds.
The wind sings upon my lips,
And pearls stream off my neck and forehead.
I am bathed in a sweat of pearls.

Eyes straight forward
Rest on a brightening ultimate slope.

1. Identify one example of simile: explain which two things are being compared.
As I tread the loam2
My feet sink deep.

2. Identify two examples of metaphor: explain which two things are being compared in
each metaphor.

3. Identify two examples of personification: explain what is being personified and how.

4. Identify one example of hyperbole: explain what is being exaggerated.

5. What is the subject/thematic message of this poem? What is this poem about?
Explain your response.