The Death of the Hired Man

“The Death of the Hired Man” is a narrative poem that tells the story of an elderly man who returns to his former employer’s farm because he has nowhere else to go. The farmer and his wife disagree about taking the man in. Write a brief essay responding to the following questions: How are the elderly in our society treated today? What should happen to people who cannot care for themselves? Think about Warren and Mary’s arguments about Silas and their different views as you draft your essay. Cite lines from the poem to support your opinions.