1a. Both lines 1 and 2 consist of elliptical sentences—that is, not all the words are provided; some are understood. Write out the complete sentences, supplying the understood words. (If you like, use you instead of thee.)
2a. What is the sense, or meaning, of prize in line 5?
3a. Recompense means "payment." What is the one thing that can be recompense for the speaker's love?
4a. Is there any objective proof that Anne Bradstreet's love for her husband is reciprocated, or are all her statements subjective? Support your answer.
5a. In your own words, how would you describe the relationship between the speaker and her husband? Do you think the poem is an accurate or an idealized picture of the relationship they have? Why, or why not?
1b. Why did Bradstreet use elliptical sentences? What effect do they have on the poem?
2b. Complete the comparison suggested in line 7 by the use of the word quenched: My love is like
3b. Restate line 10 in your own words.
4b. What does the speaker believe about the afterlife and about the consequences of being, in this life, someone who perseveres in love despite its difficulties?
5b. What sorts of difficulties might these people or any married people face? Why is it important to any relationship to be willing to persevere in spite of difficulties? Do you know anyone who has as loving a relationship as that which is depicted in the poem? Describe their relationship.
Hyperbole. Find an instance of hyperbole in this poem.
Paradox. What paradoxical statement appears in the final lines of this poem? Why do you suppose the poet chose to use this technique? What is its effect?
1. Write three hyperbole, each one about any person, thing, or quality you choose. For example, you might write a hyperbole to exaggerate the sharpness of your wit or the coldness of the weather.
2. Write the text of a greeting card you wish to send to a friend or relative to tell them how much you care. You may choose the form of a poem, or you may simply write in prose. Try to use creative language to make your message unique.
3. Sight rhyme is a pair of words, generally at the ends of lines of verse, that are spelled similarly but pronounced differently. Find an example of sight rhyme in the poem "To My Dear and Loving Husband." Then, write a short poem (4–6 lines minimum) using a sight rhyme couplet at least once. The poem can be about someone you love, or something you love, such as a certain place, a certain activity, or your favorite food.
1. My love I have not confessed.
2. Not to keep secrets, it's best.
3. Thy love I cannot repay.
4. The heavens reward thee, I pray.
5. My future in your hands I rest.
Formal Note-Taking. Look up Anne Bradstreet in two library reference books. Take notes from each reference book, using the note form recommended in the Language Arts Survey.
Sources used:
Role-Play. With another classmate, role-play an interview with Anne Bradstreet in which one of you plays the role of a modern-day marriage counselor and other plays Anne Bradstreet. If you play the role of the counselor, ask questions about Bradstreet's relationship with her husband and what makes it successful. Avoid yes-no questions and think of creative questions that will allow your interviewee to give thoughful, detailed answers. If you play the role of Anne Bradstreet, tell about your shared interests with your husband and explain what makes your relationship a good one. Write out the finished "interview," including both the questions and the answers. Refer to the Language Arts Survey 4.14, "Conducting an Interview," for help.
