"Sidekicks" by Ronald Koertge

Ronald Koertge's "Sidekicks" utilizes an empowered and concerned tone along with comparison to signify that the idea of a sidekick exists in all individuals regardless of age or status. He starts by generalizing each sidekick into one category of being eager to help and having certain faults, then by showing how they are willing to take the blow for their hero. He next moves on by comparing each sidekick to a part of each individual in society. His main point is in the final stanza, as he says sidekicks "sit in a darkened theatre," showing that the real sidekick is in the audience, as we all have certain faults and a desire to help the common cause without taking the lead. Everyone in society wants to be the hero, but each person has faults and instead has to sit on the sideline. His use of comparison shows that while everyone wants to be a hero, they can sit on the sideline, but like certain sidekicks, they have the power to later step in and take the reins themselves.

“Fight” by Laurel Blossom

In "Fight," Laurel Blossom brings her words to life with an emphatic and passionate tone as she utilizes antithesis to exemplify her constant desire to take the world head on at full speed. She begins with a seemingly curious line "That is the difference between me and you." At first glance, the bar looks out of place, but here, it actually incorporates the word "fight," as the matter that sets apart the average individual, or "you," is "fight." Blossom characterizes herself in the poem as a fighter, one that "[puts] down the top as soon as [she arrives]." Unlike the average individual, she takes risks wherever she goes and is unafraid to stand out of the crowd. Her most important line states "I'm freezing but at least I'm alive;" she refuses to conform, and although this may at times be uncomfortable, she does not accept the status quo and want to live a boring, albeit comfortable, life. She uses antithesis to contrast the two characters, herself and the average reader, fully emphasizing her passion for living on the edge. She strongly cares about this distinction, as that is what makes her interested in fighting in the first place.