Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Wanda Why Aren't You Dead" is a poem by Wanda Coleman that was first published in her collection "Ostinato Vamps" in 2003. The poem explores the theme of mortality and the ways in which the speaker confronts their own mortality.

Explanation:

The poem begins with the speaker addressing themselves by name and questioning why they are not dead yet. The speaker reflects on the inevitability of death and the ways in which we must confront our own mortality. The poem also explores the theme of the importance of living in the present moment and cherishing the time we have.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme scheme or meter. The poem consists of three stanzas of varying lengths.
• Imagery: The poem contains vivid visual imagery that evokes the experiences of the speaker, as well as emotional imagery that describes the speaker's feelings of mortality.
• Metaphor: The poem uses the speaker's name as a metaphor for the universality of mortality, suggesting that we all must confront our own mortality at some point.
• Theme: The poem explores the theme of mortality and the importance of living in the present moment, as well as the ways in which we must confront our own mortality.

Conclusion:

"Wanda Why Aren't You Dead" is a poignant and introspective poem that explores the complexities of mortality and the ways in which we must confront our own mortality. The poem's use of vivid imagery, metaphor, and introspection creates a sense of intimacy and connection between the reader and the experiences of the speaker, while its underlying themes of living in the present moment and the universality of mortality underscore the value of cherishing the time we have.

Poem Snippet:

"Wanda why aren't you dead?

Or are you?

I think I'd know

if I were."