Identify a dominant tense in the poem "Don't Quite" and explain why it is appropriate?

The dominant tense in the poem "Don't Quite" is the present tense. This tense is appropriate because it creates a sense of immediacy and urgency in the poem, as if the events described are happening in the present moment. The present tense also allows the reader to feel more connected to the emotions and experiences of the speaker, as if they are experiencing them in real time. Additionally, the present tense can convey a sense of ongoing or continuous action, which is fitting for a poem that explores themes of struggle, perseverance, and resilience. Overall, the present tense helps to enhance the impact and intensity of the poem's message.

The dominant tense in the poem "Don't Quite" by W.H. Auden is the present tense. This tense is appropriate because it creates a sense of immediacy and urgency. The poem is about the speaker's desire to do something, but never quite getting around to it. The present tense conveys the speaker's frustration and sense of urgency in a way that would not be possible with any other tense.

For example, in the first stanza, the speaker says, "I don't quite understand / what's happening to me." The present tense here conveys the speaker's sense of confusion and uncertainty. The speaker is not sure what is going on, and they are trying to figure it out as they go along.

In the second stanza, the speaker says, "I don't quite know what to do." The present tense here conveys the speaker's sense of indecision. The speaker is not sure what they should do, and they are struggling to make a decision.

In the third stanza, the speaker says, "I don't quite want to go." The present tense here conveys the speaker's sense of reluctance. The speaker does not want to do something, but they are not sure what it is.

In the fourth stanza, the speaker says, "I don't quite like it here." The present tense here conveys the speaker's sense of dissatisfaction. The speaker does not like something, but they are not sure what it is.

The present tense in "Don't Quite" creates a sense of immediacy and urgency. The speaker is struggling to understand their feelings and make decisions. The present tense conveys the speaker's frustration and sense of urgency in a way that would not be possible with any other tense.