Landmark Work

The Road Not Taken

Robert Frost · 1916 · Poem

Public domain (US)

Author

Robert Frost

Summary

A walker chooses between two woodland paths and later reflects on the meaning of that choice, with a famous, often-misread closing turn.

Literary Tradition

American Modernism

Major Themes

  • Choice
  • Memory
  • Self-deception
  • Individuality

Historical Importance

One of the most widely known American poems, frequently taught and frequently misread as a simple celebration of individuality.

Discussion Questions

  • Are the two roads truly different?
  • How does the final sigh complicate the poem's meaning?

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