Epic Poetry in Mrs. Whatley's Class

The students are cutting their literary teeth on epic poetry, and they are trying their hand at incorporating an invocation (calling on a god or goddess for help with the writing of the poem—and they must call upon a god or goddess that would watch over them in their endeavors), epithet (poetic “compliments” given to the Epic Hero—the student), and using in media res (beginning in the middle of the action) in their own epic poems.

Brittany Duncan
I sing to you, O dear Apollo, creator of the Arts, divine masterpieces have flourished under your supervision. My inept, clumsy hand only produces unworthy marks. Many drawings have been laid upon my parchment, but my hand refuses to obey. I cannot sell paintings if no talent is apparent!

Sarah Hudson
Tell, O Venus, goddess of beauty, of Sarah, pioneer of makeup. Many an eyelash she did combat whilst making them appear long and ample. Look upon her great skills and exult!

Alyssa Johnson
O Apollo, god of sun, music, and poetry, help me tune this cacophonous-sounding guitar. Put your mighty powers to use and mend this horrendous sound that dreadfully drills a hole into my eardrum. The cry of the first “E” string vexes me as I try to play one innocent song.

Lane Martin
O Apollo, god of poetry, help me today. Mrs. Whatley, teacher of the mighty Rebels of Rehobeth, has assigned me a very difficult task, which I shall achieve. Those of indolence shall she light a fire beneath. Soon, I will be one of the best poets this world has ever seen. Bring out your epics and your ballads; I will beat them all with the best weapon there is—my feather pen!

Tanner Watford
Tell, O Apollo, god of the arts, of the awesome prowess of Tanner Watford, artist of many pictures. So many mindless doodles did he chastise with his mighty Pencil of Lead and smudged Eraser of Correction, and many blank sheets of paper did he fill with fine pictures of epic heroes such as himself! Peer upon his guided characters with a grin and be blessed by the finest novice art ever created!

Joseph Davis
I call thee, Apollo, god of the sun and of the arts. I, who have slain artist’s block and created many a delightful tune, am facing an obstacle unlike any I have ever faced. Alas, my lute’s neck is warped. Having purchased it from the Trader’s Post, I should have forseen this predicament. Unfortunately, it is too late to return it and reclaim my gold…

Kiley Blair
Sing, O Venus, goddess of love and beauty, of the amazing battles in which Kiley Blair, tamer of curly hair and frizz, native to the land Hairtastic, has triumphed. She was lashing at every last curl with her great hot sword of straightening. With every bit of strength she has left, the mighty Kiley defeats the devious ringlets!