Triumph

by Wu-Tang Clan

Writing Workshop

Workshop Title: Triumph

Step 1

Start by watching the embedded video, a the first verse of the Wu-Tang Clan’s song “Triumph.” Then, when it’s done, simply talk about the verse, the lyrics, the way it sounds, and how it contributes to the attitude, aura, reputation, etc. of the group.

Step 2

Say, “Think of something, like the Wu-Tang Clan & Inspectah Deck did in “Triumph,” that you want to boast about. In the song, the group conveys their feelings of superiority in their abilities and talents as emcees. Take a few minutes to think of some things that you would love to boast about, regardless if you’re actually talented in those areas or not.” Then give them 5-10 minutes to brainstorm.

Step 3

Have your students write a poem similar in sentiment to Wu-Tang Clan’s “Triumph” in which they boast about a particular skill or talent.

Step 4

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: Sound Devices

Step 1

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

Step 2

Have your students open the following presentation and go over the first few slides with them. In this assignment, your students are going to analyze the sound devices in the first verse of Wu-Tang Clan’s “Triumph” and determine the conceptual similarities between words with shared sounds.

Step 3

Give your students time to work on the assignment. Students may work in groups if they wish.

Step 4

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

Step 5

If time permits, share the exemplar essay with them so they can see a more robust analysis of the song beyond the sound devices.

Lesson Details

Lesson Info

Focus

  • Sound Devices

Themes

  • Appreciation
  • Family
  • Joy
  • Labor / Work
  • Love
  • Violence
  • War

Literary Tags

  • Diction
  • Figurative Language
  • Selection of Detail
  • Sound Devices
  • Structure (Rhyme Scheme)
  • Tone