Republic of the Philippines

COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION

DARAGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Salvacion, Daraga, Albay

ALIM MARICAR A.

BSED ENGLISH III- A

COGNATE ELE 1

02-18-21

1. Getting at Meaning: In this poem, “A Man Said to the Universe,” the speaker proclaims
that he exists. What does this statement imply about the nature of human life?
 In human interactions, the phrase "I exist" commands attention, yet it has no bearing on
the universe. The message here could be an attack on the insignificant human ego, which
can feel powerful or unstoppable at times.

What does the response of the universe imply about the human condition?
 The universe is under no obligation to nourish or safeguard your existence. You are
under your own obligations and your existence is fleeting. If you want something,
whether it's wealth or respect, you must first humble yourself and work for it.

2. Structure: “A Man Said to the Universe” is set up as a short conversation. Why is the
answer of the universe so much longer than the man’s opening declaration?
 Because the universe was attempting to explain to man the true nature of his existence in
this world and the true meaning of living.

What attitude does the exclamation point indicate? What attitude does the word however
suggest?
 The image of a man proudly interjecting this declaration to the huge universe as he
prances about existence thinking he is so significant to the order of life is evoked by his
appeal for the universe to take notice of him and his needs.

3. Irony: Comment on the irony inherent in the universe’s response to the man.
 "The fact has not created in me a sense of obligation," the universe responds, creating the
impression that the universe is far larger than man's perception. It formulates the
universe's reaction with a sarcastic tone that puts man in his place.
 Republic of the Philippines
COMMISSION ON HIGHER EDUCATION
DARAGA COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Salvacion, Daraga, Albay

4. Theme: Crane never swerves from his basic realism. He even moves beyond realism into
naturalism, a philosophy that sees the human being as a tiny, physical being, essentially
powerless, in an enormous, apathetic universe. In naturalism, nature is neutral, running its
own course with complete indifference to human life. Explain how this philosophy is
embodied in “A Man Said to the Universe.”
 It was clearly stated as to how the universe responded to the man who seemed to be
demanding someone's attention. The man seems to be demanding a shortcut to success,
not minding the process. Crane's philosophy was embodied here, by the way, in how the
universe answered the man, which gave a sarcastic but understandable answer. 

5. Figurative Language: Find some Crane’s figure/s of speech.

 "A Man Said to the Universe," a poem by Stephen Crane, is a good illustration of
cosmic irony, because the universe has no commitment to the man's statement of his own
existence.