Theme. A theme is a central idea in a literary work. The theme of this unit is travel. As you read these two poems, consider what specific theme they share. To help you consider theme, complete the graphic organizer on this page. In the individual circles, place ideas or quotes from each poem that you feel have to do with the poem’s main idea. In the space where the circles overlap, place ideas or elements that the poems have in common. Some examples have been done for you.

• William Stafford’s “Freedom” is an example of free verse, in other words, poetry that does not follow a regular pattern of rhythm, rhyme, or stanza form. Although free verse was very popular at the time Robert Frost was writing, he chose to stick with traditional forms, claiming that writing free verse is like “playing tennis without a net.” “The Road Not Taken” is typical of Frost’s lyrics in that it uses a regular rhyme scheme, stanza form, and rhythms. Still, it has an ease and naturalness of real speech. Both Stafford and Frost are known for writing poetry in the language of ordinary people.
• “The Road Not Taken” was published in Frost’s 1916 collection Mountain Interval. The poem is typical of Frost’s work in that it deals with a subject from rural New England, in this case, a road that diverges, or forks, in the middle of a forest.
• Individualism is a social theory that advocates the freedom, rights, and independence of the individual. It involves the pursuit of one’s individual interests as opposed to those of the entire society. American society was built upon the principle of individualism. While there are times when it is important to consider the needs of society as well and to do one’s own part for the greater good, ideally, people should be able to “follow their own path.” These two poems speak about the need for individualism.

Do you consider yourself to be free to choose your own path in life? Explain.