Final answer:
The question asks for a paraphrase of Paul Laurence Dunbar's “A Death Song,” which is not provided in the question, but instead raises discussion about different poets' expressions about death and the characteristics of elegies. Elegies serve as a form to publicly mourn and reflect on the virtues of the deceased, combining cultural customs of death with the poet's personal feelings.
Step-by-step explanation:
Paraphrasing “A Death Song” by Paul Laurence Dunbar
The poem “A Death Song” is not explicitly provided in the referenced texts, but the student asks for a paraphrase that would require an understanding of the poem's original text. However, the request includes several other poems concerning the topic of death and the elegy form.
From the given information, we can infer that the subject of the question revolves around different poets' approaches to the theme of death, as exemplified in 'A Death Song' alongside other poems. An elegy is significant in this context as it's a form of poetry that mourns the dead. Both John Keats in his opening lines about being enthralled by a peaceful death and Robert Frost, highlighting the inescapable solitude of death, showcase contrasting tones and perspectives on the same theme. Keats finds a serene allure in the thought of dying, whereas Frost presents a bleaker view, focusing on the isolation experienced in death and the inability of friends to truly accompany one to death's doorstep. This interpretation aligns with the nature of an elegy, which captures both public and private reactions to loss, as well as reflections on life and the virtues of the deceased.