The Blue Rim of Memory

by Denise Levertov

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Topics for Further Study

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Do you find yourself drawn to poems like "The Blue Rim of Memory," with their strictly objective, third-person narratives? Or do you favor the more intimate and autobiographical verses that unfold like a personal story? Share why one resonates with you more than the other, and discuss the unique strengths and potential pitfalls of each style.

Historical Reflections

What makes the scene with the cabriolet so impactful in this poem? Consider what it reveals about the era when these carriages roamed the streets, and how the invocation of a bygone time intertwines with themes of sorrow.

The Power of Metaphor

Metaphors are a pervasive tool in expressing emotions or illustrating the sensory experiences of sight, sound, and taste. Imagine a world devoid of metaphors—how would that alter our communication? Reflect on how this absence might reshape your ability to convey feelings to others.

Create a poem inspired by "The Blue Rim of Memory," where you explore four additional ways "sorrow enters the bone." Remember: maintain a third-person perspective—steer clear of using I, me, we, or you.

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