Cozy Apologia by Rita Dove - EduqasWriting a response
Cozy Apologia depicts a contented relationship against a backdrop of a hurricane. Content, ideas, language and structure are explored. Comparisons and alternative interpretations are also considered.
When writing an essay about your interpretation of, or response to, a poem, you should consider the points below.
Essay-writing tips
Write a plan first, noting what you'll include in each paragraph.
Begin with a brief overview of the poem.
Go on to mention themes, form, structure, rhythm and language.
Mention a range of views or perspectives.
Compare the poem to another one.
Mention any relevant details about the context of the poem.
Conclude with a firm judgement about the poem.
Support all you say with details or quotes from the poem.
Key words
A good approach to begin with is to highlight any key words which stand out for you. Make sure you use these key words in your essay.
Example question
How does Rita Dove make Cozy Apologia such a reflective and appealing poem?
Considerations
Overview: first-person narrative, possibly autobiographical about the poet's relationship with husband, real life events - Hurricane Floyd, reflective and thoughtful tone.
Rhythm and Rhyme: irregular rhythm and rhyme scheme mirror the speaker's scattered, wandering thoughts, though the continued presence of rhyme and metre suggest the continuing strength of the couple's love.
Detail: detail of the relationship provides strong imagery, giving it an intimate appeal. Detail of ink on paper suggests reflection.
Humour: gentle irony of knight in shining armour and comparison of partner to the hurricane, affectionate dedication to Fred, humorous similes about old boyfriends.
Conclusion: appealing because of humour, irony and affection shown, reflective because of the way the poem's form and language mirror a mind wandering from thought to thought.
Some other essay questions to think about:
How does the speaker convey her thoughts about the modern world and daily life in Cozy Apologia?
How does Rita Dove explore relationships in Cozy Apologia? Compare her approach to that of another poet, such as Jackie Kay.