Those Winter Sundays by Robert Hayden

Symbols

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Word Choice

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SMILE Analysis

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Essential Questions for “Those Winter Sundays”

1. How do sound devices enrich the subject of the poem?
2. What important symbols does the poem contain?
3. What does the poem suggest about love?
4. What is the significance of winter in the poem? Of Sundays?
5. How does the speaker’s perspective on his father change from childhood to adulthood?

Who was Robert Hayden?

Robert Hayden (August 4, 1913 - February 25, 1980) was a highly acclaimed African American poet of the 20th century. He published over ten poetic volumes throughout his lifetime and was the first African American poet laureate of the United States, serving from 1976-1978. Hayden’s childhood was difficult, and he spent most of it living in foster care. Many of his works were influenced by his own experiences, but he wrote masterfully in a number of different voices. The point of view of “Those Winter Sundays” is particularly important. Teachers might consider beginning their classroom study of the poem with a discussion of the voice. The identity and motivation of the speaker make good starting points for extended analysis. For more information on Robert Hayden, visit the Poetry Foundation.