Bring on the tough stuff - there’s not just one right answer.
- How is this different from its companion in Songs of Innocence? Is this poem saying anything different, or just covering the same old ground?
- Who does the chimney sweeper really blame for his woe? And why? Do you think he's right?
- Does the fact that a young child speaks most of the poem take away from its message, effect, or seriousness? Can we trust him, in other words?
- What's up with the speaker? Does he care at all about this poor child?
- Why not just narrate this poem in the voice of the chimney-sweeper? Why choose to have it be in dialogue, with another speaker who doesn't say much at all?
- What's the effect of the rhythms and rhymes on your understanding of the poem?