The Weary Blues

Images and music can help readers understand the context in which they text they are reading was created.  The montage of images of the Harlem Renaissance, coupled with  Professor Dr. Allen Dwight Callahan’s recitation of “The Weary Blues” by Langston Hughes and the blues music in the background, helps the reader picture the context in which Hughes was writing about.  This  video paints a picture of what Harlem was like during Hughes’ time which is critical for readers to connect to his poetry.  The music and the way in which Dr. Calahan recites the poem creates a tangible representation of the mood the reader feels when they read the poem to themselves.  I really enjoy learning about the culture of the authors I read as well as the pop culture of the time period in which pieces were written.  I loved watching this movie, and although you have to be cautious when you look at videos on Youtube, this video was really helpful when reading “The Wary Blues.” 

Poe, Whitman, and Dickinson

Poe

As I sit here in the middle of a thunderstorm listening to Christopher Walken, I find myself turning the t.v. on because I am a little scared to be alone.  I have listened to this version, James Earl Jones' version, and even watched the Simpson' version, and I find it so interesting how one poem can be read in so many ways.  Whether you are reading it to yourself, listening to it, or watching it, the language creates such a distinctive, eerie tone it stays with you.  It is an unforgettable poem that is timeless.

Whitman

I just loved watching the "Song of Myself" video.  There is something about the words set to the contrasting contexts that energizes me and makes me think.  Again, this is another timeless poem because the language and ideas can apply to many different kinds of people living in various time periods.  From the video page, I clicked on a link to the PBS sight on Whitman's New York.  It was fun to click on the sights and see New York City through Whitman's eyes.  I could really paint a picture of Whitman's New York, and I loved watching the video a second time and reflecting on what the city is like today. 

Dickinson

That video was simply creepy.  Emily Dickinson is very interesting to me.  This was a small snapshot of basic details of her life, and it made me want to learn more about her experiences and read more of her poetry.