National Poetry Month: Day Twenty-four

You know that poem about two roads diverging in a woods? Of course, you do, and you know it’s not just about a road, right? The connotations of that road lead most readers on to consider their own life journey, not just a travel itinerary. That’s connotation.

In addition to literal, dictionary meanings, words often have implied, emotional meanings known as connotations. These connotations play a significant role in the search for the “right word” because they sometimes clash with a writer's intended meaning or view. Much of poetry involves the poet using connotative diction that suggests shades of meanings beyond “what the words simply say.”

Connotation is the extra tinge or taint of meaning each word carries beyond the minimal, strict definition found in a dictionary. For instance, the terms civil war, revolution and rebellion have the same denotation; they all refer to an attempt at social or political change. However, civil war carries historical connotations for Americans beyond that of revolution or rebellion. Likewise, revolution is often applied more generally to scientific or theoretical changes, and it does not necessarily connote violence. Rebellion, for many English speakers connotes an improper uprising against a legitimate authority (thus we speak about "rebellious teenagers" rather than “revolutionary teenagers”).

In the same way, the words house and home both refer to a domicile, but home connotes certain singular emotional qualities and personal possession in a way that house doesn’t. I might own four houses I rent to others, but I might call none of these my home, for example. Contrast with denotation.(Notes from Dr. K. Wheeler's website.)

Explore the free lesson plan on connotation and denotation (from Prestwick House). Have some fun with all the possibilities for chicken and cars!

Now read the following poem, mind fully open to the possible connotations of even the simplest words chosen --

S 5 10 15	Traveling Through the Dark by William Stafford Traveling through the dark I found a deer dead on the edge of the Wilson River road. It is usually best to roll them into the canyon: that road is narrow; to swerve might make more dead. By glow of the tail-light I stumbled back of the car and stood by the heap, a doe, a recent killing; she had stiffened already, almost cold. I dragged her off; she was large in the belly. My fingers touching her side brought me the reason— her side was warm; her fawn lay there waiting, alive, still, never to be born. Beside that mountain road I hesitated. The car aimed ahead its lowering parking lights; under the hood purred the steady engine. I stood in the glare of the warm exhaust turning red; around our group I could hear the wilderness listen. I thought hard for us all—my only swerving— then pushed her over the edge into the river.

	Questions on "Traveling Through the Dark" Explain the speaker’s dilemma described in this poem. What are the negative aspects of either choice? What choice does the traveler make? Why? What does the poem’s title imply about our ability to make certain decisions? Think very carefully and explore the exact word choice of the poet. Why a doe? a fawn? almost cold? What implications can you find in the connotations associated with the dark, the lights, the glare, the wilderness -- with swerving? What is the theme of this poem? Consider the last line and the title carefully before answering.

	For greater insight, check out critical discussion of this poem.

Your Turn: This poem presents an epiphany. In a quick flash of recognition, the speaker sees something which is simple and commonplace in a new light. This sudden insight is almost religious, or metaphysical, and reveals a universal truth. Discuss an epiphany of your own.