WHITE LIES
by Tara Betts
TODAY WE WILL
Let’s start by watching the following video. When it’s done, try to think of some personal examples or observations of when a seemingly innocent lie or fib turned into something bigger than it really needed to be, kind of similar to the situation of the gentleman in the clip.
TAKE 5-10 MINUTES TO DISCUSS.
Let’s read “White Lies” by Tara Betts.
When we’re done, let’s briefly discuss her perception and attitude toward “white lies” and the ways in which she was able to convey them.
Choose a lie or fib that was meant to be an innocent gesture that spiraled into something larger or more serious than it needed to be. Then compare that lie to something else - like Betts did with her poem - and try to come up with a list of reasons as to how those two things relate to one another.
Take 5-10 minutes to brainstorm.
“Lies”
Today, write a poem similar in style to Tara Betts’ “White Lies” in which you recount an experience or observation with a white lie and discuss how it transformed into something bigger or more serious than it needed to be. Be sure to utilize an extended metaphor throughout the piece.
LIES
In the poem, Betts’ tone takes an abrupt shift after the first stanza, as she moves from describing white lies in an almost innocent, doting tone to one of repulsion and disgust. In your poem, challenge yourself to shift the tone of the piece to match the various attitudes you’re trying to convey about your “white lie.”
Take 15 minutes to write your poem..