Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Trip on the Staten Island Ferry" by Audre Lorde is a beautifully compact yet expansive exploration of migration, belonging, and the meaning of journeying through life. Written in 1973, the poem addresses Jonno and serves as both a reflection and a meditation on the complexities of the human condition as embodied by the vibrant and dynamic cityscape of New York.

The poem opens with a focus on pigeons that nest "on the Staten Island Ferry" and "raise their young" without ever touching the shore. These birds symbolize a particular kind of existence, one that is in constant transit yet rooted in a familiar space. This dualistic imagery is intriguing as it represents both the nomadic and settled aspects of life. In a similar vein, the Staten Island Ferry itself becomes a metaphor for the voyage that every individual must undertake, suggesting that "every voyage is a journey," irrespective of its destination.

Lorde's poetic message to "cherish this city" extends beyond the mere geographical limits of New York to encompass the broader emotional landscapes we inhabit. This idea of the city being "left you by default" acknowledges the inevitable societal and familial legacies we inherit. Lorde emphasizes that even in such a well-trodden and populated city, "there are still secrets in the streets," a testament to the enigmatic qualities of human life and the potential for discovery and wonder.

The poem's latter half subtly shifts its attention to the "old men / shining shoes on the Staten Island Ferry." These characters provide another layer of meaning. Their lives are inherently bound to the ferry, just like the pigeons, but unlike the birds, they "carry their world in that box slung across their shoulders." This introduces a human element of labor and societal role but also presents a metaphor for the emotional and experiential baggage that people carry through life. The question of whether "they share their lunch / with the birds" or "ever find their way / back home" leaves the reader pondering the complex interrelationships between various forms of life existing within the same ecosystem, drawing parallels to human coexistence in society.

By weaving these images and characters together, Lorde provides a multifaceted narrative that explores themes of journey, belonging, labor, and the ceaseless search for identity and home. While the poem may not offer definitive answers to these big existential questions, it functions as a gentle reminder of the continuous journey of life that everyone is a part of. In doing so, it encourages the reader to find joy in the transient moments and to always be open to the possibility of undiscovered secrets, whether they lie in a bustling city or deep within oneself. The beauty of the poem lies in its ability to conjure a sense of universal connection and shared humanity through the very specific image of a ferry ride, making it a powerful statement on the intricacies of life's never-ending voyage.

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