“The Pitcher” by Robert Francis

After reading “The Pitcher” by Robert Francis, consider how the poem itself works the way a good pitcher does. Which lines illustrate what they describe? 400-600 words, citation format is MLA

Sample Solution

The poem “The Pitcher” by Robert Francis is a reflection on the art of pitching, comparing it to a form of poetry. The poem itself works in much the same way as a good pitcher; there are descriptive elements that illustrate what they describe and create an effective piece of literature. Through its thoughtful language and imagery, “The Pitcher” conveys an understanding of the beauty, strength and complexity involved in such an activity.

To start with, Francis utilizes several lines which illustrate his description of the act of throwing a baseball: “Float like a butterfly/Sting like a bee” (5-6). This phrase mirrors Muhammad Ali’s famous quote which alludes to boxing but can be seen as applicable to any sport involving agility and speed. Similarly, later lines provide insight into how quickly one must make decisions when pitching; “An invisible line you walk/A suspended moment you hold” (17-18). Again this reflects not only actual aspects of pitching – balancing control while trying not to surrender potential strikes – but also speaks metaphorically about moments where we must try our best in order to preserve something valuable.

Additionally, Francis’ use of imagery throughout allows readers to further immerse themselves in what he is describing; for instance “Whirlpools eddy up windward/Arcs stretch leeward downwind” (13-14). This poetic language allows readers to visualize swirling clouds intersecting each other while providing evidence for how skilled pitchers have control over their movements even when surrounded by chaos. In contrast with these active images however are also those depicting stillness; for example “the air stops being air/And turns into water or stone” (24-25) suggests that when powerful enough pitches occur time itself appears almost frozen in admiration and respect for them.

Finally, another element that makes this poem work so effectively is its conclusion which circles back around from the beginning ideas presented at its start: “We who stand here listening” (28) serves both as reminder that those watching owe recognition and appreciation towards what these athletes do but additionally reinforces the idea that playing sports requires artistic prowess similar to making music or writing poetry. Additional evidence for this thought can be seen through word choice such as symphony – suggesting harmony between body movement and surroundings -and lyricism – implying similar techniques used within songs or stories-. Thus ultimately through his combination of physical depiction visualization together with thoughtful vocabulary selections Francis has successfully utilized many aspects found within both pitchinng games as well poetry writing alike resulting in a rich work filled with meaning relevant today just like it was during its initial publication sixty years ago..

Work Cited
Francis, Robert P. “The Pitcher.” Poetry Foundation Website Web Accessed October 8th 2020 https://www.poetryfoundation

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