Compare Non-fiction Selection To Poetry "Fortune's Bones" And "Not My Bones"

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  • 1/24 Questions

    How is the SPEAKER of the poem best described?

    • A skeleton
    • The soul
    • Weeds and wind
    • The stars, sun, and moon
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About This Quiz

Carefully read the selections "Not My Bones" (page 648 ---remember poems should be read a minimum of 3 times in order to truly get their meaning/read it first (maybe even 2 times) then the essay "Fortune's Bones" then the poem a 3rd time for best understanding!) and "Fortune's Bones" (page 653) complete the following only AFTER CAREFULLY READING the selections for full understanding! Remember to take your time and do your best ~

Compare Non-fiction Selection To Poetry "Fortunes Bones" And "Not My Bones" - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    In the poem, the narrator uses repetition in saying, "I was not this body/I was not these bones".  How does this phrase CONTRIBUTE to the meaning of this poem?

    • She is saying that her bones and her body are not really there.

    • She is making a point that a person is much more than what one can see ~ the soul and heart of a person is of ultimate importance/NOT the body itself!

    • She is saying that her body might belong to her master, but she shouldn't be made to work like a slave because she isn't one.

    • She is saying that people are sometimes violently mean and ruthless and that she would never own another individual because it is just wrong!

    Correct Answer
    A. She is making a point that a person is much more than what one can see ~ the soul and heart of a person is of ultimate importance/NOT the body itself!
    Explanation
    The repetition of the phrase "I was not this body/I was not these bones" in the poem contributes to the meaning by emphasizing the idea that a person's true essence goes beyond their physical appearance. The narrator is asserting that one's soul and heart are the most significant aspects of their being, rather than their external form. This highlights the importance of looking beyond superficial judgments and recognizing the intrinsic value of individuals based on their inner qualities.

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  • 3. 

    Why does the speaker in "Not My bones" use repetition of the phrase "glad to be free" in lines 41-42 of the poem?

    • Saying it several times emphasizes the speaker's happiness.

    • Repeating the prhase demonstrates Nelson's confusion.

    • The speaker cannot believe that the situation is real.

    • The speaker reiterates it because Nelson thinks it is a lie.

    Correct Answer
    A. Saying it several times emphasizes the speaker's happiness.
    Explanation
    The speaker in "Not My bones" uses repetition of the phrase "glad to be free" in lines 41-42 of the poem to emphasize their happiness. By repeating the phrase, the speaker emphasizes the depth of their joy and the significance of their newfound freedom. This repetition serves to highlight the speaker's emotional state and convey the intensity of their happiness.

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  • 4. 

    Which statement best indicates what  "Not My Bones" suggests about slavery?

    • That it is not fun

    • That a person's essential nature (who they truly are) can never be enslaved

    • That it's illegal to make someone a slave

    • That a person who is a slave does not have the strength or courage to fight for him/herself

    Correct Answer
    A. That a person's essential nature (who they truly are) can never be enslaved
    Explanation
    The statement "that a person's essential nature (who they truly are) can never be enslaved" suggests that the poem "Not My Bones" conveys the idea that even though a person may be physically enslaved, their inner self and identity cannot be controlled or suppressed by slavery. The poem likely explores the resilience and strength of the human spirit, emphasizing that one's true essence cannot be taken away by external circumstances like slavery.

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  • 5. 

    The sepaker in "Not My Bones" would be UNAFRAID of the idea of death.  This is EVIDENCED by how he/she

    • Has already experienced a wonderful life

    • States that people are much more than their bodies

    • Wants to live in the sky among the stars

    • Has other things to marvel at/look forward to in life

    Correct Answer
    A. States that people are much more than their bodies
    Explanation
    The speaker in "Not My Bones" would be unafraid of the idea of death because they state that people are much more than their bodies. This suggests that they have a deeper understanding of the human experience and believe in the existence of something beyond the physical realm. This belief would likely give them a sense of peace and acceptance towards the idea of death, knowing that there is more to life than just the physical body.

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  • 6. 

    For what reason do you believe that Marilyn Nelson  was inspired to write the poem, "Not my Bones?"

    • To inspire others to write poems about the cruelties that slaves had to endure

    • To illustrate the central idea that while Fortune's physical body (his bones)may still endure, it is not nearly as significant as his soul that can never be contained or put on display. His soul will endure freely and forever.

    • To demonstrate her prowess in connecting a non-fiction article to a poem about death

    • To entertain the reader with a poem with the central of idea of freedom and equality for all individuals who just choose to "live" in the present.

    Correct Answer
    A. To illustrate the central idea that while Fortune's physical body (his bones)may still endure, it is not nearly as significant as his soul that can never be contained or put on display. His soul will endure freely and forever.
    Explanation
    Marilyn Nelson was inspired to write the poem "Not my Bones" to illustrate the central idea that while Fortune's physical body (his bones) may still endure, it is not nearly as significant as his soul that can never be contained or put on display. The poem explores the concept of eternal freedom and the enduring nature of the soul, emphasizing the importance of spiritual strength over physical existence.

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  • 7. 

    Which fact supports the idea that Fortune generally was in good health?

    • His skeleton was sturdy and complete

    • He worked on a farm growing vegetables

    • He was the father of four children

    • His remains have lasted for more than 200 years.

    Correct Answer
    A. His skeleton was sturdy and complete
    Explanation
    The fact that Fortune's skeleton was sturdy and complete supports the idea that he was generally in good health. A sturdy and complete skeleton indicates that he did not suffer from any major diseases or injuries that would have affected his bone structure. It suggests that he had a strong and healthy body, which is often a sign of overall good health.

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  • 8. 

    What does the speaker mean in the simile she uses in lines 15-19?  Which statement BEST represents the idea in the SIMILE itself?

    • That a person is not just his/her body

    • No body should own somebody else

    • That thinking a person is just what you see (just the body) is like a horseless bridle trying to go on its own.....it would be empty!

    • Comparing life to love of living

    Correct Answer
    A. That thinking a person is just what you see (just the body) is like a horseless bridle trying to go on its own.....it would be empty!
    Explanation
    The speaker means that thinking a person is only their physical appearance is like a horseless bridle trying to function on its own, which would be empty. This simile suggests that a person's essence and identity cannot be reduced to their physical body alone.

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  • 9. 

    Why does Nelson most likely use the word "itty-bitty' to describe the people's voices in line 38 of "Not My Bones"?

    • When you praise something, you should do so quietly.

    • A voice will eventually disappear, so it's very tiny

    • The world is filled with an enormous amount of voices, so one is very small in the midst!

    • The stars are way too far away to hear the voices, so it makes one voice seem very small!

    Correct Answer
    A. The world is filled with an enormous amount of voices, so one is very small in the midst!
    Explanation
    Nelson most likely uses the word "itty-bitty" to describe the people's voices because the world is filled with an enormous amount of voices, making one voice seem very small in comparison.

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  • 10. 

    Which of the following could you infer has happened to the speaker in the last stanza of the poem?

    • He has escaped to the North to become a free man/woman.

    • His master granted him his freedom one morning.

    • He is rejoicing because of his physical death.

    • He got a good night's sleep and felt refreshed when he woke up.

    Correct Answer
    A. He is rejoicing because of his physical death.
  • 11. 

    The author most likely included the various details about Fortune's personal life to.... 

    • Help the reader understand that he was a slave

    • help the reader see him as a person/individual and connect more with him/his plight

    • Give reasons for Dr. Porter's keeping Fortune's bones

    • To let us - as readers - move back in time to that era

    Correct Answer
    A. help the reader see him as a person/individual and connect more with him/his plight
    Explanation
    The author included various details about Fortune's personal life to help the reader see him as a person/individual and connect more with him/his plight. By providing these details, the author humanizes Fortune and allows the reader to empathize with him, which in turn deepens their understanding of his experiences as a slave. This helps to create a more emotional and personal connection between the reader and Fortune, making his story more relatable and impactful.

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  • 12. 

    Which of the following would be the most likely explanation for how Fortune's skeleton came to be referred to as "Larry?"

    • Larry was a popular name among the Porter family

    • The family preferred a more traditional name, so they changed it,

    • People forgot about the origin of the remains over time, so they picked a random name..

    • In Fortune's hometown of Waterbury, Larry was a famous resident, so they re-named the skeleton in his honor

    Correct Answer
    A. People forgot about the origin of the remains over time, so they picked a random name..
    Explanation
    Over time, people forgot about the origin of Fortune's skeleton and its true name. In order to refer to the remains, they randomly chose the name "Larry" as a way to identify the skeleton without knowing its actual identity.

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  • 13. 

    According to the selection, what was the motivating factor that contributed to the museum discontinuing the display of Fortune's bones?

    • The members thought the display was disrespectful

    • It was deemed unlawful to display the bones of a slave in Waterbury museums

    • Children feared the skeleton display when they visited the museum.

    • The bones were deteriorating from years of being mistreated in the museum and needed to be repaired

    Correct Answer
    A. The members thought the display was disrespectful
    Explanation
    The correct answer is that the members thought the display was disrespectful. This suggests that the reason for discontinuing the display of Fortune's bones was the belief among the museum members that it was disrespectful to publicly exhibit the remains of a person, particularly a former slave. This indicates a concern for ethical considerations and a desire to treat human remains with dignity and respect.

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  • 14. 

    What was Dr. Porter's medical specialty?

    • Studying the human body

    • Preserving bones after death

    • Finding cures for diseases

    • Setting broken bones

    Correct Answer
    A. Setting broken bones
    Explanation
    Dr. Porter's medical specialty was setting broken bones. This means that he was skilled and experienced in the process of aligning and immobilizing fractured bones to promote proper healing. This specialization would have involved knowledge of anatomy, orthopedic techniques, and the use of various tools and devices to treat fractures.

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  • 15. 

    According to the selection, most slaves who died in Waterbury in the 1700s were

    • Baptized before they died

    • Returned to their places of origin

    • Buried in the town's cemeteries

    • Honored by their owners

    Correct Answer
    A. Buried in the town's cemeteries
    Explanation
    The selection states that most slaves who died in Waterbury in the 1700s were buried in the town's cemeteries. This means that after their death, their bodies were laid to rest in the cemeteries located within the town. This suggests that there was a practice of giving slaves a proper burial in designated burial grounds, indicating a level of recognition and respect for their lives even in death.

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  • 16. 

    After nearly a century of being forgotten, Fortune's remains were found again by....

    • A crew of workers

    • The staff of a museum

    • A college physicology class instructor

    • One of Porter's descendants

    Correct Answer
    A. A crew of workers
    Explanation
    Fortune's remains were found again by a crew of workers. This suggests that the discovery was accidental and not intentional. It is likely that the crew of workers stumbled upon Fortune's remains while carrying out their regular duties or while conducting construction work. The other options, such as the staff of a museum, a college physiology class instructor, or one of Porter's descendants, imply a deliberate search or investigation, which is not mentioned in the question. Therefore, the most plausible explanation is that the discovery was made by chance by a crew of workers.

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  • 17. 

    Both the poem and the non-fiction article about Fortune support the idea that 

    • Respect for both the living and the dead should be a priority for all of man-kind

    • There should be a deeper meaning in life than work

    • Slaves had no right to have hope for a better future.

    • Slavery was once a necessary evil for those who needed help on Southern plantations

    Correct Answer
    A. Respect for both the living and the dead should be a priority for all of man-kind
    Explanation
    Both the poem and the non-fiction article about Fortune emphasize the importance of respecting both the living and the dead. They both suggest that this should be a priority for all of mankind. The poem may discuss the value of honoring the deceased and recognizing their contributions to society, while the non-fiction article may highlight the significance of remembering and valuing the lives of those who came before us. Overall, both texts support the idea that respect for both the living and the dead is essential for humanity.

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  • 18. 

    Which detail from the story best supports the idea that Fortune and Doctor Porter had an unusual relationship for a slave and his slave owner?

    • Fortune planted crops on Porter's land

    • Porter's will left out Fortune's daughters

    • Porter willed Fortune's wife to his own wife

    • Fortune had a house of his own on Porter's land

    Correct Answer
    A. Fortune had a house of his own on Porter's land
    Explanation
    The detail from the story that best supports the idea of an unusual relationship between Fortune and Doctor Porter is that Fortune had a house of his own on Porter's land. This suggests that Fortune had a level of autonomy and independence that was uncommon for a slave. It implies that Fortune had a certain level of trust and respect from Porter, as well as a degree of freedom and agency in his own life. This detail highlights the unique dynamics of their relationship, as it goes against the typical power dynamics between a slave and their owner.

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  • 19. 

    Lines 3-6 of the poem mean that a human being is made of  molecules that come together only for as long as the person lives; then they move on. Which of the following lines from the poem would least support this idea?

    • We are brief incarnations, /We are clouds in clothes,

    • I bore light passed on by original flames;/while it was in my hands it was called by name.

    • You can murder hope, you can pound faith flat,/ but like wildflowers, they grow right back

    • This skeleton was just/ my temporary home.

    Correct Answer
    A. You can murder hope, you can pound faith flat,/ but like wildflowers, they grow right back
    Explanation
    The correct answer would be "You can murder hope, you can pound faith flat, but like wildflowers, they grow right back." This line contradicts the idea that molecules come together only for as long as the person lives and then move on. It suggests that hope and faith can be destroyed but will always come back, implying that they are not temporary like the human body.

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  • 20. 

    In considering the CENTRAL IDEA and the THEME of the poem, it could be stated to best emphasize.....

    • The speaker's love for others

    • Differences seen among all races and mankind in general

    • Difficulties in the search for freedom

    • Strength of enslaved people's hope

    Correct Answer
    A. Strength of enslaved people's hope
    Explanation
    The correct answer is the strength of enslaved people's hope. This is because the central idea and theme of the poem revolve around the resilience and determination of enslaved individuals, highlighting their unwavering hope in the face of adversity. The poem likely explores the struggles and hardships faced by these individuals, but ultimately focuses on their ability to maintain hope and find strength in their circumstances.

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  • 21. 

    How was the decision made by Dr. Porter to preserve Fortune's bones significant for the Porter family?

    • The skeleton became a famous exhibit at a museum

    • The Porters' last link to Fortune and his family was Fortune's skeleton

    • Historians and scientists analyzed the bones to discover important information

    • Four more generations of Porters became physicians

    Correct Answer
    A. Four more generations of Porters became physicians
    Explanation
    The decision made by Dr. Porter to preserve Fortune's bones was significant for the Porter family because it led to four more generations of Porters becoming physicians. This suggests that the preservation of Fortune's skeleton and the subsequent analysis of the bones by historians and scientists may have sparked an interest in medicine within the family. It also implies that the legacy of Fortune and his family's history, represented by his skeleton, inspired future generations to pursue a career in medicine, possibly as a way to honor their ancestor.

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  • 22. 

    How would you describe the TONE, or author's attitude towards the subject of Fortune's Bones?

    • Angry

    • Sad

    • Triumphant

    • Matter-of-fact

    Correct Answer
    A. Matter-of-fact
    Explanation
    The author's attitude towards the subject of Fortune's Bones is matter-of-fact. This means that the author presents the information in a straightforward and objective manner, without expressing any strong emotions or opinions. The tone is neutral and focuses on providing factual details about the subject, without trying to sway the reader's emotions or opinions.

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  • 23. 

    What is the connection of the last line/paragraph of the article in relationship to the central idea of the poem?

    • Once Fortune's identity was confirmed, the author felt she was free to write her poem because his bones were no longer on display and his body was "free."

    • The author wanted to stress in poetic format and through a non-fiction work that in relationship to Fortune's life, the bones the were his least significant part..

    • The author wanted to impress the idea upon the reader that once someone is a slave, they can never truly be free.

    • The author's central idea of both the poem and the passage was that Fortune was a hero among slaves when he was living because he exhibited great courage and integrity as he suffered continuous abuse from his master.

    Correct Answer
    A. The author wanted to stress in poetic format and through a non-fiction work that in relationship to Fortune's life, the bones the were his least significant part..
    Explanation
    The last line/paragraph of the article connects to the central idea of the poem by emphasizing that the bones were the least significant part of Fortune's life. This suggests that the author wanted to highlight Fortune's character, courage, and integrity as a hero among slaves, rather than focusing on his physical remains. The author's intention was to convey this message through a combination of poetic and non-fictional elements in the work.

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  • 24. 

    The non-fiction article supports the opinion that Fortune was not free for many years after his death. How does the poem contradict this viewpoint?

    • The view point in the poem is that a slave's bones cannot be abused to the extent that the actual living person could be abused, so Fortune was better off when he was nothing but bones.

    • In the article,the Porter family and the museum retained "ownership" of him, but in the poem when he died, his soul was set free.

    • Figurative language throughout the poem focuses on the idea that whether living on earth or living in the afterworld, a person's true essence (the soul) can never be held captive or possessed.

    • In the article, Fortune was finally set free when his true identify was revealed once again; in the poem he will always be held captive.

    Correct Answer
    A. Figurative language throughout the poem focuses on the idea that whether living on earth or living in the afterworld, a person's true essence (the soul) can never be held captive or possessed.
    Explanation
    The poem contradicts the viewpoint in the article by emphasizing that a person's true essence, their soul, cannot be held captive or possessed, whether in life or in the afterworld. This contradicts the idea in the article that Fortune was not free for many years after his death because the poem suggests that his soul was set free upon his death. The figurative language used in the poem supports this idea, highlighting the notion that a person's true identity and essence can never be controlled or owned.

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