Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"It's Halloween" is a fun and spooky poem written by Jack Prelutsky. It was first published in 1977 as part of his book "The Random House Book of Poetry for Children." The poem captures the excitement and eerie atmosphere of Halloween night.

Explanation:

The poem describes the various activities and sights of Halloween night, such as trick-or-treating, carved pumpkins, ghosts and witches, and haunted houses. It also emphasizes the sense of fear and anticipation that accompanies the holiday, with lines such as "Shadows dancing everywhere / Is that a werewolf's shaggy hair?"

Poetic Elements:

• Rhyme Scheme: The poem has a consistent ABAB rhyme scheme, with each stanza consisting of four lines.
• Imagery: Prelutsky creates vivid images of the spooky Halloween scenes, such as "witches on broomsticks, / ghosts and goblins too" and "mummies, bats, and skeletons / Are waiting in the queue."
• Tone: The tone of the poem is playful and spooky, capturing the excitement and thrill of Halloween night.
• Structure: The poem is composed of five stanzas, each consisting of four lines. The consistent rhyme scheme and structure create a sense of rhythm and flow to the poem.

Conclusion:

"It's Halloween" is a fun and exciting poem that perfectly captures the eerie and playful atmosphere of Halloween night. With its vivid imagery and playful tone, the poem is a great choice for children and adults alike who want to get into the Halloween spirit.

Poem Snippet:

Witches on broomsticks,

Ghosts and goblins too,

Mummies, bats, and skeletons

Are waiting in the queue.