Question

Read the poem "On Virtue," by Phyllis Wheatley.

O thou bright jewel in my aim I strive
To comprehend thee. Thine own words declare
Wisdom is higher than a fool can reach.
I cease to wonder, and no more attempt
Thine height t’explore, or fathom thy profound.
But, O my soul, sink not into despair,
Virtue is near thee, and with gentle hand
Would now embrace thee, hovers o’er thine head.
Fain would the heaven-born soul with her converse,
Then seek, then court her for her promised bliss.

Auspicious queen, thine heavenly pinions spread,
And lead celestial Chastity along;
Lo! now her sacred retinue descends,
Arrayed in glory from the orbs above.
Attend me, Virtue, thro’ my youthful years!
O leave me not to the false joys of time!
But guide my steps to endless life and bliss.
Greatness, or Goodness, say what I shall call thee,
To give an higher appellation still,
Teach me a better strain, a nobler lay,
O Thou, enthroned with Cherubs in the realms of day!

What is the main similarity between “On Virtue” and Frost’s poem "Mending Wall"?
Both use everyday language.
Both use a similar rhyme scheme.
Both use free verse.
Both use blank verse.

Answer 1

The primary similarity between 'On Virtue' and 'Mending Wall' is their use of traditional verse forms. Both poems use structured meter, with 'Mending Wall' written in blank verse and 'On Virtue' also using a consistent metrical pattern.

Step-by-step explanation:

The main similarity between Phyllis Wheatley's poem On Virtue and Robert Frost's poem Mending Wall is that they both employ a formal structure with a consistent metrical pattern. Wheatley's poem is more explicitly about virtue and moral elevation, whereas Frost's poem is a dramatic monologue that depicts the ritual of repairing a wall between neighbors as a metaphor for maintaining boundaries in human relationships. Neither poem employs free verse; instead, they both utilize structured verse to convey their themes. Mending Wall is written in blank verse, using unrhymed iambic pentameter. On Virtue also does not use everyday language but rather a more elevated diction appropriate to its philosophical subject matter. Therefore, the main similarity lies in the use of traditional verse forms rather than free verse or everyday language.