Expository Poetry Essay: Discovery of Self


DIRECTIONS: Write a well-organized composition on the topic below.

The most profound discovery that we can make is our discovery of self. Our identity rests in the kind of people we are. To understand who we are and to develop fully as human beings, we must explore the nature of our humanness and the purpose of our lives.

  • Who and what are we? What are the common human qualities and ideals we hold?
  • What roles do other people (e.g., friends, family) play in our lives?
  • What brings us joy, inspiration, and fulfillment?
  • What doubts and fears do we have?

By examining our lives and searching for answers to these and other questions, we can find meaning and fulfillment as human beings.

In poetry, poets examine these same questions about the human condition.

From poems you have read, select a work(or two or three) in which the poet explores the nature of our humanness and the purpose of our lives. Using detailed references from the work, explain how the poet examines the common human qualities and ideals we hold. How do the roles of other people contribute to this discovery of who we are? Is the poet’s general message more about what brings joy, inspiration, and fulfillment or does the message examine our doubts and fears?

As you write your composition, remember to:

  • Give the title and the author of the work.
  • Identify briefly unfamiliar words and review the basic content of the poem
  • Give specific examples, reasons, and details to explain how the poet examines the common human qualities and ideals we hold.
  • Give specific examples, reasons, and details to explain the contribution of other people to this discovery
  • Give specific examples, reasons, and details to explain the general message of the poem.
  • Write in complete sentences.
  • Write coherent and well-developed paragraphs.
  • Use correct grammar, spelling, punctuation, and capitalization.
Expository Literary Essay Plan
Expository Literary Essay Plan
Holistic Expository Essay Rubric
Holistic Expository Essay Rubric