Write a formal analysis of the poem ““Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver. “Formal” means that your paper conforms to the standards of written English (e.g., in paragraphs with complete sentences, using correct grammar and spelling).
Length of analysis: 500 words
● discuss the poem/section line by line. For example: ○ Make note of visual images, diction, and patterns of sound
(vowels, consonants) ○ Look for metrical patterns, making note of stressed syllables in
particular ■ Look for long vowel sounds, consonants surrounding
long vowel sounds, and multisyllabic words ○ Pay attention to the appearance of the poem on the page,
focusing on individual lines as well as patterns that develop throughout the poem
● Next, discuss larger movements or meanings of the poem. ○ What particular patterns appear in the poem? ○ How do the various elements and devices that you have
discussed work to convey meaning?
