Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Manifest Destiny" is a poem by Jorie Graham, first published in her book "The Dream of the Unified Field" in 1995. The poem is a meditation on the themes of history, identity, and the American experience.

Context: 

Jorie Graham is a contemporary American poet who has won numerous awards for her work, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry. Her poetry often explores philosophical and existential themes, and is characterized by its rich imagery and complex syntax.

Content: 

"Manifest Destiny" is a poem that reflects on the legacy of American history and the concept of manifest destiny. The poem explores the ways in which this ideology has shaped the American identity and the ways in which it continues to impact contemporary American society.

The poem also reflects on the role of the poet in shaping and reflecting upon American history and identity. It asks questions about the relationship between the individual and the collective, and the ways in which our sense of self is shaped by the stories we tell about ourselves and our past.

Form:

 "Manifest Destiny" is structured as a series of free-verse stanzas. The poem is characterized by its complex syntax and its use of rich, evocative imagery.

Poetic Elements: 

The poem makes use of a wide range of poetic devices, including metaphor, imagery, and repetition. The poem is known for its vivid and evocative language, as well as its ability to capture the complexities of American history and identity.

Summary: 

"Manifest Destiny" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the themes of history, identity, and the American experience in a unique and compelling way. The poem is a testament to Jorie Graham's ability to use poetic language to explore complex philosophical and existential themes, and to create complex and nuanced portraits of the human experience. Overall, "Manifest Destiny" is a work of great literary merit and cultural significance, and continues to be studied and celebrated today.