Hanging Fire Poem

In “Hanging Fire,” the poet describes the speaker’s fears and worries to give the reader insight into —

• common experiences many teens face on a daily basis

• unique experiences only the mother can understand

• moments the speaker would only discuss with a true friend

• struggles that frustrate every parent of a teen

Which sentence best describes the effect of the short lines in “Hanging Fire”?

• They highlight how young and immature the speaker is.

• They illustrate the speaker’s lack of ability to express herself fully.

• They show that the speaker prefers to keep the details of her life private.

• They indicate the fleeting thoughts going through the speaker’s head each moment.

In “Hanging Fire,” the poet’s use of free verse makes the speaker sound like a teenager who is —

• giving a formal speech at school

• discussing problems with a friend

• singing a song to prepare for a talent show

• describing her personal experiences to a parent

  describing her personal experiences to a parent

What does the closed door symbolize in "Hanging Fire"?

• The neediness of the child

• The child’s nervousness

• The mother’s heartache for the child

• The mother’s lack of attention towards the child.

In lines 19–21 of “Hanging Fire,” the speaker says “there is nothing I want to do and too much that has to be done” to express

• frustration at having too many chores

• a constantly changing view of life.

• a feeling of excitement about the future.

• anger about not making the Math Team.

A concern that the speaker in “Hanging Fire” repeats in each stanza relates to

• dying soon

• needing help

• feeling happy

• wanting space

What tone does the poem "Hanging Fire" best express?

• angry/frustrated

• happy/joyful

• scared/lonely

• friendly/loving

Which phrase from “Hanging Fire” indicates that the speaker is not an adult?

• "always so ashy"

• "what if I die"

• "I am fourteen"

• "still sucks his thumb"

A concern that the speaker in “Hanging Fire” repeats in each stanza relates to

• dying soon

• needing help

• wanting space

• feeling happy

Which poem was an example of lyric poetry?

• "Hanging Fire"

• "Translating Grandparent's House"