Robert Frost and Billy Collins

Paper Summary:

This paper examines how "The Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost and "Introduction to Poetry" by Billy Collins, are similar in a number of ways while also presenting differences by contrast. One poem tells a story of a traveler, while the other chronicles the thoughts of what seems to be an instructor. The paper looks at how each poem utilizes language differently, with the wording of one being far more eloquent and florid than the other. Similarities in topic but disparities in both language use and qualities are further explained in the comparison of these two poems.

Outline:
Introduction
The Road Not Taken
Introduction to Poetry
Compare/Contrast
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"The Road Not Taken by Robert Frost begins by establishing both the narrator and the setting. A traveler is within the woods, deciding upon which path in a fork which lies ahead of him to take. The lines are in verse and rhyme, with the literary descriptions of the location being quite vivid. One path ahead of the traveler is worn down and well used, while the other "just as fair, and having perhaps the better claim, because it was grassy and wanted wear..." The traveler takes a moment to consider which path to pursue, as one is of well-used while the other presents something of a mystery. First, he thinks perhaps he shall take the path most taken; rationalizing that he will one day take the fresh path. However, the recognition that he may never again come to this particular fork in the road sparks within him, changing his course. "

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