Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | ||||||||
"American Sonnet (35)" is a poem by Wanda Coleman that was first published in her collection "Mercurochrome: New Poems" in 2001. The poem is part of a series of American Sonnets that critique American society and explore issues of race, class, and gender. Explanation: The poem begins with a description of a spooky and unsettling scene, evoking feelings of fear and uncertainty. The poem then shifts to explore the ways in which society perpetuates these feelings of fear and uncertainty, particularly for marginalized communities. The poem also reflects on the ways in which society has been shaped by these systems of oppression and the impact that they have on individuals. Poetic Elements:
Conclusion: "American Sonnet (35)" is a haunting and evocative poem that critiques American society and the ways in which it perpetuates fear and uncertainty, particularly for marginalized communities. The poem's use of sonnet form, vivid imagery, and repetition creates a sense of urgency and unease, while its underlying themes of the impact of societal forces on individuals underscore the importance of recognizing and challenging systems of oppression. Poem Snippet: "Boooooooo. Spooky ripplings of icy waves. This is a land where shadows shoulder shadow, where the sky can be an alley or a hatchet. Black folk hang from poplar trees and out of history." Copyright (c) 2024 PoetryExplorer | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...A MOMENT by MARY ELIZABETH COLERIDGE THE CORAL GROVE by JAMES GATES PERCIVAL JANUARY, 1795 by MARY DARBY ROBINSON THE SEAMY SIDE OF MOTLEY by FRANKLIN PIERCE ADAMS THE WEAVER'S APPRENTICE by AL-RUSAFI THE ART OF PRESERVING HEALTH: BOOK 2. DIET by JOHN ARMSTRONG |
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