Prepare a annotation report for poem
QUESTION
Discuss how Phoebe Grainer uses experiences of childbirth and maternity to explore Aboriginal connection to Country in her poem, “Boragee”.
You must include an annotation of Grainer’s poem in your submission.
In your written answer, you also need to refer to at least THREE different examples of poetic language/techniques from the poem, e.g. metaphor, imagery, symbolism. Try not to simply retell the story of the poem. Rather, try and show how the author is using specific kinds of language/techniques to explore her key ideas.
GETTING STARTED: Phoebe Grainer’s poem, “Boragee”, can be found in the Subject Reader in “Week 3 Readings”. There is also a sample question and answer, including annotation, in the Assessment 1 folder on vUWS. In addition, the folder contains Kate Fagan’s lecture pod guidance for the written component of this assessment.
Students might also find the following resources helpful:
Phoebe Grainer talking about the relationship between her writing, language and Indigenous culture for SBS: https://www.sbs.com.au/programs/video/1528177731664/Writing-to-keep-my-Indigenous-culture-alive
Paul Hetherington and Cassandra Atherton’s article on “prose poetry” in Australia:
https://researchprofiles.canberra.edu.au/en/publications/broken-forms-prose-poetry-as-hybridised-genre-in-australia
REMEMBER: the core focus of this assessment is on close reading skills and students do not need to include reference to any secondary/critical resources for this assessment. If you do choose to include additional secondary materials, please ensure that they are correctly presented and referenced.
EXTENSIONS: if you require an extension, you must apply online via the student Western Now Portal and attach supporting documentation, e.g. medical certificate. Students with an AIP are also required to complete this form. Students have up to 2 days after the assessment deadline to apply. Please be aware that your extension will be dated from the assessment due date and based on the evidence you provide, and not dated from the extension submission date.
