Text structure: poetry and prose 8

Read the passages.

by Alfred Lord Tennyson

Night
Although starving and exhausted, I’m gratified that my strength held up long enough to survive the relentless storm gales. As I cling precariously on this high cliff surrounded on all sides by the sea, too weak to move, I beg my talons to hold tight as I rest, for I cannot seem to keep my eyes open to my hazardous situation.

Morning
I give credit to my claws—they cleaved well. As I balance on one, I stretch the other and look out over the cliff: I see nothing but ocean. As I shift my weight to try and uncramp the other, I swivel my head and listen for sounds of life, but all is quiet—nothing audible but the sea. Thankfully, there’s no sign of the tempest from last night, but now, there’s no wind to ride on. Complete stillness. I need food, but I sense none. My body begs for further rest and I comply.

Late Afternoon
The sun beats down on me. I’ve never been so close to her, but now teetering on this towering cliff I feel her incredible power. I stretch my wings, still clinging to the rocky edge. I’m pleased to realize that the extended rest helped heal my body—my wings no longer feel heavy and troubled, but I am still weak and in dire need of sustenance. Fortunately, the wind has returned and the sea has changed her face. Suddenly, my eye catches something moving in the waves. Instantly and instinctively I dive—straight and determined, for I am Eagle.