It Couldn't Be Done

Which words from Guest's poem show his attitude toward the phrase, "It couldn't be done"?

• chuckle, grin, sing

• scoffed, couldn't, could

• doubting, failure, dangers

• replied, worried, started

The simple straightforward style of "It Couldn't Be Done" is probably meant to reflect the ___

• Values of an earlier historical period

• Author's natural speaking voice

• Ease of a task once it is attempted

• Skill needed to write a poem

The last two lines in each stanza of "It Couldn't Be Done" give the reader a sense of ___

• failure

• happiness

• confusion

• accomplishment

Which is one way the author of "Be the Best of Whatever You Are" emphasizes the theme in his poem?

• The use of action words throughout the poem

• Employment of ABAB rhyme scheme

• Repetition of the phrase "If you can't..."

• Punctuating with dashes and semicolons

The rhythm in both of these poems contributes to a mood that is ___

• shocking

• upbeat

• gloomy

• foolish

The speakers in both poems would probably disagree with which of the following statements?

• Work hard at whatever task you take and be proud of it.

• You'll never know what you can accomplish until you you give it your best effort

• You shouldn't accept the role you are given - keep waiting for something better

• If you don't succeed at something, keep trying until you do.

How does the author's style in "It Couldn't Be Done" compare to the author's in "Be the Best of Whatever You Are"?

• Both authors enthusiastically offer advice to the reader

• The author of "Be the Best of Whatever You Are" speaks directly to the reader.

• Both authors use a four-line stanza

• The author of "It Couldn't Be Done" is more optimistic

In which collection might these poems be found?

• Rousing Poems for Every Day

• Poetry for Quiet Moments

• Travel Poems from Many Lands

• Fishing Poems for the Angler