This Cloud in My Mind
by Trey Loker
They tell me to pay attention.
They tell me to read along.
They tell me to write down my thoughts,
even though they are so often drowning.
Each day,
each passing day,
I cannot get passed this cloud in my mind.
They tell me to sit up straight.
They tell me to stop talking.
They tell me to stay quiet and listen,
even though my mouth constantly runs.
Each day,
each passing day,
I cannot get passed this cloud in my mind.
They tell me to sit back down!
They tell me to stop screaming and screaming!
They tell me to breathe and calm down,
even though by patience is razor thin!
Each day,
each passing day,
I cannot get passed this storm cloud in my mind!
They hold me close and hug me.
They tell me it will be all right.
They tell me to breathe and calm down,
even though I’ve totally created a scene.
Each day,
each passing day,
We’re starting to get passed this cloud in my mind.
They tell me to pay attention.
They tell me to read along.
They tell me to write down my thoughts,even though they are so often drowning.
But now,
with each passing day,
We continue to get passed this cloud in my mind.
Thank you for helping me.
Question 1
Why is the 4th stanza important to the theme of the poem?
It shows the effect people can have when they choose to help someone who needs it.It shows the effect people can have when they choose to help someone who needs it.
B It illustrates the anger and frustration some students experience in the classroom.It illustrates the anger and frustration some students experience in the classroom.
C It demonstrates the need for the creation of better classroom rules and procedures.It demonstrates the need for the creation of better classroom rules and procedures.
D It points out the hopelessness and guilt some students go through when they are told to listen and obey.
In what two ways does the 4th stanza contribute to the theme of the poem?
Responses
A It shows someone helping the narrator.It shows someone helping the narrator.
B It shows how a cloud affects the narrator's thinking.It shows how a cloud affects the narrator's thinking.
C It shows how long it takes for the narrator to calm down.It shows how long it takes for the narrator to calm down.
D It shows the reaction of the narrator after receiving comfort.It shows the reaction of the narrator after receiving comfort.
E It shows the consequences of the narrator losing his temper in class.