The Teacher Who Played “Sweet Thing” To Explain Metaphor In Poetry

April 1, 2025

Mr. Thompson had been teaching English at Maplewood Middle School for over a decade. His classroom was a vibrant sanctuary of words, where tacked-up quotes from famous poets jostled for attention alongside students’ colorful artwork. One rainy Wednesday afternoon, he decided it was time to dive into the world of metaphor, a subject that often left his eighth graders scratching their heads in confusion. Instead of the usual textbook explanations, Mr. Thompson had a plan that would not only engage his students but also break the boundaries of conventional learning.

As the bell rang, Mr. Thompson walked to the front of the classroom with a twinkle in his eye. “Today, we’re going to explore metaphor through music,” he announced, surprising his students. “I want to play you a song that’s a perfect example: ‘Sweet Thing’ by Van Morrison.” The room buzzed with curiosity as he clicked play on his trusty old stereo, filling the air with the soulful sound of Morrison’s voice. The students listened intently, the enchanting blend of jazz and folk wrapping around them like a warm embrace. Little did they know that this song would take them on a journey through not just language, but also the life of the artist behind it.

As the notes floated through the room, Mr. Thompson began to unpack the lyrics. “Think of ‘Sweet Thing’ as a love letter,” he explained, his passion lighting up the space around them. “Van Morrison uses metaphors to express love in ways that paint pictures in our minds.” He pointed out lines that likened love to flowers and warmth, inviting his students to feel the emotions behind the words. It was a revelation for many in the room, their eyes widening as they began to see poetry in a new light. Hearts swayed and imaginations ignited as they began to grasp how metaphor could transform simple ideas into profound experiences.

As the song played on, Mr. Thompson shared the backstory of Van Morrison’s creation. He explained how the artist had struggled with his fame, feeling lost despite his talents. Morrison wrote “Sweet Thing” hoping to capture the pure, unadulterated joy of love in a world that often felt chaotic and overwhelming. Mr. Thompson’s voice grew softer as he spoke of the challenges Morrison faced—his battles with anxiety and the pressures of success. Yet through it all, Morrison’s passion for music and genuine desire to connect with others shone through, allowing him to persevere and create something timeless.

By the time the song faded out, the students were buzzing with newfound excitement and appreciation. They had not only learned about metaphor and music but had also connected with the deeper struggles and triumphs of an artist who poured his heart into his work. Inspired, they began to share their thoughts, discussing their own interpretations of the lyrics and how music made them feel. It was a moment of genuine connection, where the class transformed from mere students to a tight-knit community bonded by art and emotion.

That rainy afternoon changed everything for Mr. Thompson and his students. The lesson wasn’t just about understanding metaphors; it was about recognizing the resilience of artists like Van Morrison, who, despite their struggles, continued to create beauty that reached into the hearts of many. As they left the classroom, each student carried a piece of that experience with them, inspired to express themselves and pursue their passions, just like the musicians whose songs had become the soundtrack of their lives.