Week 5: Poetry

Stopping by Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost and illustrated by Susan Jeffers
Genre: Poetry



From the time I was a small child I have always loved this timeless poem by Robert Frost. So, when I discovered this beautifully illustrated hard-cover version last year I was very excited to purchase a copy. First of all the poem itself is a classic. It never fails to fill me with a sense of calmness and serenity each time I read it. The technical aspects of this poem are very well done, as with all of Robert Frost's work. The diction he has chosen takes the reader into the pages of the book, creating a mood of stillness and appreciation for the beauty and simplicity of nature. The following line exemplifies this idea: "The only other sound's the sweep of easy wind and downy flake." Each time I read this line I can almost hear and feel Frost himself as he was writing this piece.

Another element which complements Frost's use of diction is imagery. Without viewing the illustrations (although they certainly add to the poem) one can clearly picture the scene Frost is trying to paint. When he describes the woods as "lovely, dark and deep" I feel as though I can almost see and smell the enchanting forest. The power of his words creates a compelling sense of harmony within me.

In addition to Frost's masterful writing, Susan Jeffer's illustrations truly bring this poem to life. She uses a clever and effective technique throughout the book of using shades of grey to illustrate the background and filling in the human or animal elements of the poem with color. This allows the man who is recounting the poem to jump off the page in stark contrast to the nature scenes which blend into the background. I believe this was done purposefully to emphasize Frost's theme of taking the time to acknowledge the simple beauty of our environment. Futhermore, Jeffers also includes subtle animals drawn into the forest scenes which require the reader to stop and study in order to clearly see. This is another way of underscoring society's need to slow down, admire and value what we often do not see around us.


The combination of Robert Frost's elegant writing-style and Susan Jeffer's magificent illustrations produce an enduring text which is a must-have for anyone who appreciates quality literature.