Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost1923 Ms. Mulligan

Robert Frost (1874-1963) was one of the most popular and critically respected American poets in history. His poems frequently employ rural scenes from the New England countryside. At first glance, “Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening” is a rather simple poem—a man pausing his horse to observe a wintery landscape before moving on—but its carefully constructed lines, like the woods, have a deeper allure.  As you read, take notes on Frost’s use of imagery and the structure of this poem.
My little horse must think it queer

   

To stop without a farmhouse near   

Between the woods and frozen lake   

The darkest evening of the year.   

He gives his harness bells a shake   

To ask if there is some mistake

The only other sound’s the sweep   

Of easy wind and downy

flake.   

The woods are lovely, dark and deep,   

But I have promises to keep,   

And miles to go before I sleep,   

And miles to go before I sleep.

How does the poem’s rhyme scheme develop its tone?

1. AThe poem follows an AABA BBCB CCDC DDDD end rhyme scheme; this flowing, alternating scheme contributes to the soft, almost lullaby-like quality of tone.
2. BThe poem follows an AABA BBCB CCDC DDDD end rhyme scheme; this repetitive rhyme, almost like a chant, contributes to the eerie tone.
3. CThe poem is composed of rhyming couplets, creating a musical diction and beat; this contributes to the playful tone.
4. DThe poem is composed of rhyming stanzas (i.e. AAAA BBBB CCCC DDDD); this consistent, almost blocky rhyme contributes to the solemn tone.