Ilthigore
11-24-2006, 06:15 PM
I've just returned from a successful recitation of "The Hollow Men" at my school's annual poetry reading contest. Reactions to the poem were mixed, ranging from great enthusiasm (thankfully, from the judge), to general boredom and bemusement.
What do you think of this poem? Does it move you, or are you left with a feeling that it's just pretentious, pessimistic and somewhat dull?
Also, if you like it, how would you present it?
I went roughly (in overall tone)
I. Monotonous and 'dry'
II. Foolhardy and slightly rushed
III. Afraid and confused
IV. Terrified and angry
V. Normal voice: contemplative and thoughtful, but gradually getting quieter and less enthusiastic, proceeding to mumble and 'whimper' the "Thine is/Life is/..." bit.
Italics Voice: Staring directly at the audience and reading slowly with a deep voice.
What do you think of this poem? Does it move you, or are you left with a feeling that it's just pretentious, pessimistic and somewhat dull?
Also, if you like it, how would you present it?
I went roughly (in overall tone)
I. Monotonous and 'dry'
II. Foolhardy and slightly rushed
III. Afraid and confused
IV. Terrified and angry
V. Normal voice: contemplative and thoughtful, but gradually getting quieter and less enthusiastic, proceeding to mumble and 'whimper' the "Thine is/Life is/..." bit.
Italics Voice: Staring directly at the audience and reading slowly with a deep voice.