This sheet highlights some of the poem's numerous Biblical references. Note that in many cases Gordon uses particular words to signal something to his audience, but the signal can only be received if the audience knows the Biblical reference. While his references are brief, much meaning can be gleaned if the larger Biblical story and context are known.

Suggested Activities: After reading the poem and gathering students' initial reactions, have students look at each of the lines with a Biblical reference and then at the Biblical references themselves. Encourage them to read a few verses before and after each citation (both in the poem and in the Bible). What, in general, does Gordon gain from using words or phrases with religious resonance? Who might have been the audience for Gordon's poem? What is he assuming about his audience? What does each individual reference add to the poem? 

Have students write new footnotes to the poem, explaining the meaning behind the references.