Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

TV EDITORIAL, by DAVID WAGONER Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"TV Editorial" is a poem by David Wagoner, an American poet and novelist known for his works that explore themes of nature and the human experience. Wagoner was born in 1926 in Ohio and has written numerous books of poetry, including "TV Editorial," which was first published in 1965.

Explanation:

The poem "TV Editorial" is a critique of the power of the media to shape our perceptions and influence our beliefs. The poem describes the speaker's observations of a televised editorial, in which a news anchor attempts to sway public opinion on a political issue. The poem also touches on the idea that the media can be a powerful tool for those in power to control the narrative and manipulate public opinion.

Poetic Elements:

Form: Free verse with no consistent rhyme or meter
Imagery: Vivid descriptions of the televised editorial and the way in which it attempts to manipulate public opinion
Tone: Critical tone that challenges the power of the media and those in power to shape our perceptions and beliefs
Metaphor: Use of the televised editorial as a metaphor for the ways in which the media can be used to control the narrative and manipulate public opinion

Conclusion:

"TV Editorial" is a powerful and critical poem that challenges the power of the media to shape our perceptions and beliefs. Through the use of vivid imagery, tone, and metaphor, the poem portrays the televised editorial as a tool for those in power to control the narrative and manipulate public opinion. The poem challenges us to question the media we consume and the messages we receive, and to recognize the power we have to think critically and form our own opinions.

Poem Snippet:

The news anchor's face fills the screen,

and his voice booms out like a god's.

He tells us what to think and feel,

and we believe him