Perfecting Poetry: T.S. Eliot - Rhapsody On A Windy Night - Lines 49-78

This video lesson is part of the 'Perfecting Poetry' series, focusing on T.S. Eliot's 'Rhapsody on a Windy Night.' It analyzes lines 49 to 78, exploring the persona's existential crisis and the symbolism used by Eliot. The lesson highlights the influence of French symbolist poet Jules Laforgue on Eliot's work, particularly in the use of symbols like the moon and dead geraniums. The video examines the imagery and themes of urban decay and modern life's monotony, as seen through the persona's fragmented consciousness. The lesson concludes with a reflection on the poem's portrayal of modernity.

What is the main focus of the lesson in the 'Perfecting Poetry' series?

• Analyzing the entire poem of 'Rhapsody on a Windy Night'

• Understanding the persona's existential crisis

• Learning about T.S. Eliot's biography

• Exploring the history of modern urban life

Which French symbolist poet heavily influenced T.S. Eliot?

• Arthur Rimbaud

• Jules Laforgue

• Charles Baudelaire

• Paul Verlaine

What does the moon symbolize in the poem?

• Divine feminine power

• A feeble and senile figure

• A symbol of hope

• A representation of time

How does T.S. Eliot subvert traditional beliefs about the moon?

• By describing it as a source of light

• By associating it with urban decay

• By portraying it as a powerful deity

• By linking it to romantic ideals

What sensory imagery is used to describe modern urban life?

• Visual and auditory

• Auditory and olfactory

• Tactile and gustatory

• Kinesthetic and olfactory

What does the persona's memory evoke in the poem?

• Scenes of vibrant city life

• Memories of childhood innocence

• Images of a peaceful countryside

• Vignettes of urban decay and monotony

What is the persona's response to the street lamp's imperative to sleep?

• The last twist of the knife

• A feeling of hope

• A desire to escape

• A sense of relief

How does the poem reflect the philosophy of Jules Laforgue?

• By highlighting the beauty of nature

• Through optimistic themes

• Through a focus on historical events

• By echoing a pessimistic view of modern life

What is the tone of the poem's closing monostich?

• Neutral

• Pessimistic

• Optimistic

• Joyful

What question does the lesson pose about viewing one's local town or city?

• How would you see it after midnight?

• How would you describe its history?

• What is its cultural significance?

• What are its most famous landmarks?