Edward Hirsch's Poem Fast Break

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In the poem, “Fast Break” Edward Hirsch conveys to the readers about how the players react to an aggressive game. The poet uses vivid language and similes to express the intensity the athletes create in the game of basketball. The poet compares this fast pace game using various similes. For example, the poet compares the players to “brothers” describing the players being in sync both mentally and physically. The athletes treat the ball as a “cherished possession” meaning the ball is very valuable because they are in control. The poet also states “for the game he loved like a country” (l. 32) clearly defining that the players or player commits to the game of basketball as one loves their country. When reading this poem, you see a great amount

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