Final Verses

Worksheet Description

This worksheet introduces students to the concept of an epitaph through the lens of the famous poet Robert Frost. It presents the epitaph that is inscribed on Frost’s tombstone, which are the last lines from his poem “A Lesson for Today.” Students are invited to ponder why Frost might have chosen these particular lines for his epitaph and to reflect on what the words might mean to them personally. The exercise combines literary analysis with personal reflection, encouraging students to consider the significance of a writer’s legacy through their chosen final words.

The worksheet is designed to teach students about the personal and poetic significance of epitaphs, especially as a means for writers to cement their legacy. By analyzing Frost’s choice for his epitaph, students learn to appreciate how a literary work can resonate beyond the life of its author. The task encourages students to engage with the text, promoting empathy and introspection as they relate the epitaph to their own experiences and understandings. Additionally, students are encouraged to contemplate the broader themes of memory, mortality, and the enduring power of poetry.