The Gorham Middle School (GMS) Monhegan Team (8th grade) recently completed a comprehensive poetry analysis of Linda Ellis’ “The Dash”. This poem encourages readers to consider the “dash” that is present on the tombstone, and how when a person dies, what is most important is not the years of birth and death, but the many experiences and impacts made in that “dash” — the years that represent the person’s life.
After reading and analyzing the poem, Lona Tassey’s 8th graders were tasked with considering their own “dash” and writing an essay that outlines their vision of a meaningful life.
Students were asked to grapple with challenging questions to craft this essay, reflecting upon their short journey in life thus far, and what paths they aim to take in the future.
Regardless of your age, take a moment and consider, what is the meaning of YOUR “dash”?