Cody, Nova Venerable
Name:
On a separate sheet of paper, answer the following questions in complete, clear,
and concise sentences—(2-4) sentences. HOMEWORK GRADFE
1. What was more powerful, reading the poem to yourself or listening to
Nova’s performance? Why?
2. Find one allusion in the poem and why do you think Nova used it?
3. Find three similes in the poem:
4. What do you think is Cody’s biggest obstacle? Why?
5. What is something Nova hopes for Cody?
6. Explain this line:
a. Why is it when I look/at him, I can see every needle/we’ve ever had
to stick/his arms, legs, or stomach with/to keep him alive.
7. Why do you think Nova keeps referencing God? How is religion or faith
conveyed in the poem? Do you think it is important to her? Why and how?
8. What is Nova afraid of in this poem?
9. Why do you think Nova wrote this poem?
10. Pick the most meaningful line(s) in the poem and explain why it had such
an impact on you.
Allusion is a brief and indirect reference to a person, place, thing or idea of
historical, cultural, literary or political significance. It does not describe in detail
the person or thing to which it refers. It is just a passing comment and the writer
expects the reader to possess enough knowledge to spot the allusion and grasp its
importance in a text.