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‘The Road Not Taken’ is a 20-line poem by American poet, Robert Frost (1874–1963). It was first published in 1915.

Frost is one of America’s most loved poets. During his lifetime, he won four Pulitzer Prizes for Poetry. He is remembered today for using the simple things that he saw and did in the countryside to discuss deep social and philosophical issues.

In this poem, the speaker describes something that happened to him during autumn while walking in the woods. He came to a place where the path divided into two. He thought for a long time about which of the paths he should follow. Eventually, he chose one path, although he remained unsure if it or the other path was the better one for him.

Although the poem is about choices, people disagree about its precise meaning. Perhaps the poet wants us not to worry too much about the choices we make in life, but to allow life to do with us whatever it will. When you have read the poem, likely you will have some ideas of your own. I would like to hear them. If you choose this lesson, you will have a chance to talk about these topics:

(1)   With what attitude should we confront the choices we have in life?

(2)   How should we feel if our choices do not lead to the best outcome?

If you request this lesson, I will send you a pdf with the text of the poem. Frost’s language is simple and conversational. If you use a dictionary, you should have no difficulty in understanding the words. However, please make a note of any words or phrases that you don’t fully understand and mention them to me during the lesson. I will try to answer them for you.

Optional reading exercise:

***If you would like me to give you feedback on your reading during the lesson, please practice reading the poem. I can help you to improve your pronunciation, phrasing, and intonation.

***If you prefer to send me an audio file (MP3 format) in which you read the poem, I will send you brief feedback at no extra charge. (Please be patient: You may have to wait up to 24 hours to receive this feedback.)

This lesson is designed for intermediate and advanced students of English. It should also appeal to university students who are interested in English Literature. Some high school students might also enjoy the lesson.