Welcome to American Literature, 2016-17

This year we are starting with a poem, a classic and short one by Robert Frost, published by Harper's Magazine in 1920, "Fire and Ice":

“Fire and Ice” by Robert Frost

Some say the world will end in fire,
Some say in ice.
From what I’ve tasted of desire
I hold with those who favor fire.
But if it had to perish twice,
I think I know enough of hate
To say that for destruction ice
Is also great
And would suffice.

For class on Tuesday, write a paragraph that explains what this poem means. While you do not have to type this paragraph out, you should be prepared to read your answer aloud to the entire class.