To understand a poem, you have to go beyond the words. You have to figure out what the author wants to say, even if it is not expressed explicitly. This is called “reading between the lines”.

Answer the questions below, making sure to follow instructions.

Hint

I know that a text cannot say everything.

While I read, I need to read between the lines, meaning that I need to guess what is not written:

I can use my previous knowledge, making connections to the subject of the text.
I can make assumptions based on clues in the piece of writing.
I can check whether or not my assumptions are correct by noting all the clues that help me answer the questions asked.

In lines 1 to 4 of the poem, you are given clues that help you discover the places described. What place is the author referring to? Choose the correct answer.

The poem describes a bear’s den. I know it is dark in a den because not much sunlight gets in.

The poem describes the Far North of Quebec, where the days of winter are very short.

The poem describes an area of high mountains that hide the sun.

In lines 5 to 8, the poem describes a “blizzard”. Reading the whole poem again, then choose the best definition of this word.

A cloud of confusion in a dream

A whirlwind that lifts leaves and trees off the ground

A very cold and violent wind that accompanies snowstorms

What connection does Shawn Agnatuk make between the blizzard and the theme of the contest, “From yesterday to tomorrow”?

Shawn Agnatuk can no longer distinguish the past from the future or what the future is about, as if he were in a cold and swirling storm.

Shawn Agnatuk loves bears. He would like to adopt one and tame it.

Shawn Agnatuk is a boy who wants to go on an adventure and travel around the world.

In lines 9 to 13, the author expresses emotions, comparing them to the physical characteristics of the bear. Check off whether each of the following statements is true or false.

The author suggests sadness by comparing himself to a lost and morose bear.

True

False

The author speaks of purity, specifying that there is only white upon his heart.

True

False

In lines 18 to 21, what does the word “posterity” mean? Check off the correct answer.

Future generations

Heat

The presence of polar bears

In the poem, the author has to make a decision or take action. What is it? Choose the best answer.

Whether or not to eat a fish

Remain sad or find joy

Leave the Far North or stay in the Far North

Activities

From Yesterday to Tomorrow / Activity 1 : Between the Lines of My Poem