"This alone is what I wish for you. . . "

Demeter’s Prayer to Hades

This alone is what I wish for you: knowledge.

To understand each desire has an edge,

to know we are responsible for the lives

we change.

No faith comes without cost,

no one believes without dying.

Now for the first time

I see clearly the trail you planted,

what ground opened to waste,

though you dreamed a wealth

of flowers.

There are no curses – only mirrors

held up to the souls of gods and mortals.

And so I give up this fate, too.

Believe in yourself,

go ahead – see where it gets you.

by RITA DOVE

After reciting the poem for several classes and getting into it, I ask my 12th graders to create their own version by replacing some words or phrases (the ones that are highlighted) Below you can enjoy a sample :) 

 

Whatś your story?

When working with Slavery, I show my fourteen-year old students the film "Amistad" by Stephen Spielberg (amazing movie, by the way) After watching it, I give them this activity:

John Quincy Adams, former US president, tells Mr. Joadson to find out about the slaves'story. Joadson answers “they are from Africa” but Quincy tells him “No. no. their STORY” So, what is YOUR story? Answer that question as if you were telling a story in AT LEAST 100 words. Include the points below:

1. When, where and how were you born?
2. What have your parents told you about YOU when you were little? Personality, actions, etc.
3. Are you the only child in your family? What position do you have? Eldest, youngest?
4. Have you always lived in the same house? Or have you moved a lot?
5. What topics/issues/ideas interest you?
6. What topics/issues/ideas make you sad?
7. Which attitudes make you angry?
8. Which anecdote/memory best describes you?
9. What action can you do to improve this world? 
   In this way, I try to connect the students with the African slaves; with the "human" side of the history. I have received beautiful productions! Below you will find one of them. 
   PS: I would appreciate it if you left some comments :)