Now that you have analyzed the diction and connotation of the words in "Sometimes I Cry," how would you describe the tone of the poem? What do you think the author's purpose/intent is?

The tone of the poem "Sometimes I Cry" can be described as melancholic and introspective. Given the analysis of diction and connotation, the words chosen in the poem likely convey a sense of sorrow, vulnerability, and perhaps a yearning for understanding or relief. The connotations of the words would contribute to a prevailing sense of emotional depth, where the speaker reflects on their inner feelings of sadness or grief. This reflection often produces a somber, intimate, and honest tone.

The author's purpose or intent in writing a poem with this tone could be multifaceted. They might aim to connect with readers on an emotional level by sharing experiences that are universally human. The author could also intend to provide comfort to those who have felt similar emotions, to highlight the importance of acknowledging and expressing one's feelings, or to initiate a dialogue about mental health and emotional well-being. By choosing specific words that resonate with readers on a deeper level, the author can effectively communicate the intensity of their emotions and engender empathy or introspection in the audience.

Extra: When discussing the tone of a poem, it is essential to understand tone as the attitude or emotional atmosphere that the poet conveys through their choice of words and details. Tone can be conveyed in many ways, including word choice (diction), sentence structure (syntax), rhythm, and imagery. In poetry, the tone is often closely tied to the emotional state the poet wishes to evoke or the atmosphere they want to establish.

The connotation of words refers to the positive, negative, or neutral associations that they carry, beyond their literal meanings (denotations). For example, the word "cry" may connote a deep sense of sadness or an overwhelming emotion, which contributes to the melancholic tone of the poem.

Authors often write with various purposes in mind. In poetry, they might express personal feelings, critique societal issues, capture moments in time, or simply play with language. The intent behind a poem can influence not only its content and structure but also the emotional journey on which the poet takes the reader. Understanding the author's purpose or intent can deepen the reader’s appreciation of the poem and its thematic significance.