Category: AP Literature
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Sonnet 73- William Shakespeare
“That time of the year…” is the opening line of Sonnet 73, one of William Shakespeare’s famous sonnets. The sonnet is a reflection on the passing of time and the inevitable decay and mortality of human life. In Sonnet 73, the speaker compares the changing seasons to the different stages of life. The poem begins…
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“The Pardoner’s Tale” by Geoffrey Chaucer
“The Pardoner’s Tale” is a narrative poem written by Geoffrey Chaucer as part of his famous work, “The Canterbury Tales.” It is told by the Pardoner, a controversial character who sells indulgences and relics, claiming to offer forgiveness of sins. The tale explores themes of greed, deceit, and the destructive power of money. The story…
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“A Call to Youth” by S. Radhakrishnan
“A Call to Youth” is a speech delivered by S. Radhakrishnan, an Indian philosopher, statesman, and the second President of India. In this inspiring speech, Radhakrishnan addresses the youth of India, urging them to take an active role in shaping the future of the nation. The speech emphasizes the importance of youth in nation-building and…
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“The Good Woman of Szechuan” by Bertolt Brecht
“The Good Woman of Szechuan” is a play written by Bertolt Brecht. It tells the story of Shen Te, a kind-hearted prostitute in the fictional city of Szechuan (also spelled “Sichuan”). The play explores themes of morality, capitalism, and the struggle to be good in a corrupt and exploitative society. The play begins with three…
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“The Bus” by Arun Kolatkar
“The Bus” is a poem written by Arun Kolatkar, an Indian poet known for his experimental and evocative poetry. The poem provides a vivid and sensory exploration of a bus journey, capturing the chaotic and multifaceted nature of urban life. The poem begins by setting the scene on a crowded bus. Kolatkar immediately immerses the…
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“The Captive Air of Chandipur-on-Sea” by Jayant Mahapatra
“The Captive Air of Chandipur-on-Sea” is a poem written by Jayant Mahapatra, an Indian poet known for his evocative and introspective verse. The poem explores the theme of captivity, both literal and metaphorical, through the lens of the coastal town of Chandipur-on-Sea in Odisha, India. The poem begins by setting the scene in Chandipur-on-Sea, a…
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“The Striders” by A.K. Ramanujan
“The Striders” is a poem written by A.K. Ramanujan, an acclaimed Indian poet, translator, and scholar. The poem reflects on the theme of human existence, mortality, and the transient nature of life. It explores the idea that individuals are like “striders” who move through the world, leaving their footprints behind. The poem begins by presenting…
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“Sea Breeze Bombay” by Adil Jussawala
“Sea Breeze Bombay” is a poem written by Adil Jussawala, an Indian poet known for his distinct voice and unique style. The poem captures the essence of Bombay (now Mumbai), a bustling coastal city in India, and explores the themes of urban life, nostalgia, and the power of nature. The poem begins by evoking the…
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“Poet, Lover, Birdwatcher” by Nissim Ezekiel
“Poet, Lover, Birdwatcher” is a poem written by Nissim Ezekiel, an Indian poet known for his wit, humor, and keen observations of everyday life. The poem explores the multifaceted nature of the poet and his experiences as a lover and birdwatcher, while also delving into the complexities of human existence. The poem begins with the…
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“Song of the Hindustanee Minstrel” by Henry Derozio
“Song of the Hindustanee Minstrel” is a poem written by Henry Derozio, a prominent poet of the early 19th century in Bengal, India. It was published in 1828 and reflects Derozio’s views on social issues and his advocacy for a progressive and inclusive society. The poem celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of India and calls…