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Copywork
About This Passage
Poe drags a nightmare into waking life: the repeated dashes and the piled clauses — paws, breath, fangs — make an unseen 'monster' press on the reader's own chest. Copying it teaches how parallel sensory details and the em-dash build pure dread.
My dream, then, was not all a dream. Now, at least, I was in possession of my senses. The paws of some huge and real monster were pressing heavily upon my bosom—his hot breath was in my ear—and his wh...
Full copywork activity with handwriting lines available in the complete study guide.
Discussion Questions
Narration Prompt
In your own words, tell the story of this chapter: Gordon's growing longing for the sea, the secret plan with Augustus to stow away on the Grampus, the disguise that fools his grandfather, the long days hidden in the box, and Tiger's arrival. Which moments mattered most, and how do you know?
Discussion Questions
- Gordon admits he used 'intense hypocrisy' to deceive his family and still went forward with the plan to hide on the Grampus. What seems to be driving him most in this chapter, and what details help you decide whether his desire for the voyage is daring, selfish, or something in between? Use details from the chapter to explain.
- When his grandfather Mr. Peterson stops him on the foggy street, Gordon escapes by answering in a gruff, insulting voice instead of running. Why does Poe make this tense, dangerous moment also funny, and how does the humor change the way we read Gordon's risky plan? Use details from the chapter.
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Vocabulary Builder
Item 1
A deep, lingering sadness.
Item 2
The act of making someone believe what is not true.
Item 3
Pretending to be or feel what you are not.
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Critical Thinking
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