Sea Devil

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Sea Devil

Step 1

Ask your students, “Watch the following video. When it’s over, discuss what made this moment so memorable, poetic, tragic, etc. for so many people.” Take a few minutes to discuss.

Step 2

Read “Sea Devil” by Seth Peterson. As you’re reading, think of the ways in which the poem attempts to capture the “magic” or “miraculousness” of the moment.

Step 3

Say, “Think of something, like the Sea Devil, that “defies the odds.” It could be a person, an animal, or even a moment in nature that shouldn’t have survived or excelled, but did. Describe what makes it extraordinary or unexpected in as much detail as possible.” Give them a few minutes to brainstorm.

Step 4

Ask your students compose a poem similar in sentiment to “Sea Devil” in which they portray something that achieves some form of greatness, defying all expectations and odds.

Step 5

When the students are done, have them share their responses with one another.

The full presentation may be found HERE.

Analytical Lesson

Area of Focus: Imagery

Step 1

If your students are not familiar with the concept of “imagery,” go through the introductory lesson.  

Step 2

Start by showing your students the following clip for some context to the piece.

Step 3

When the segment is done, show your students the following video, a short compilation of memes created in response to the “Sea Devil.” 

Step 4

After the clip, ask your students what made this story go viral. What was so touching, memorable, or poetic about this occurrence? Briefly discuss.

Step 5

Ask your students to open the following document and go over the instructions with them. In this assignment, your students are going to effectively “fill in” the imagery for the poem, using thought and deliberation in their artistic choices to best reflect the tone the author had intended for the piece. When you’ve gone over the directions, give your students time to work. 

Step 6

When your students are done, ask them about their creative choices. What kind of imagery did they implement in their writing? For what purpose? Field a few answers.

Step 7

Now share the original piece, “Sea Devil” by Seth Peterson with your students. As you are reading, ask your students to pay particular attention to the imagery of the piece and the function(s) it serves.