Acquainted with the Night

by Robert Frost

Directions: Read the following poem by Frost several times [more than twice]. Feel free to mark it up; that is, underline, highlight, or make marginal notes of any of the language you feel is important to understanding the poem. Mark specifically any technical features you find in the poem; for instance , rhyme and meter. Then write an interpretation of the poem. Try to write at least 200 words and incorporate the relevant language and images of the poem. Write your interpretation to meet the content standard below:

2.2 Write responses to literature:

a. Develop interpretations exhibiting careful reading, understanding, and insight.

b. Organize interpretations around several clear ideas, premises, or images from the

literary work.

When you have finished, be sure to proof-read your essay and carefully correct any errors. Then pick up a rubric for scoring your interpretation of this poem. Compare your interpretation to the rubric, give yourself a score and then write a detailed explanation for why you have earned that score point.

Acquainted with the Night

I have been one acquainted with the night.

I have walked out in rain—and back in rain.

I have outwalked the furthest city light.

I have looked down the saddest city lane.

I have passed by the watchman on his beat

And dropped my eyes, unwilling to explain.

I have stood still and stopped the sound of feet

When far away an interrupted cry

Came over houses from another street,

But not to call me back or say good-by;

And further still at an unearthly height,

One luminary clock against the sky

Proclaimed the time was neither wrong nor right.

I have been one acquainted with the night.