Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Sarah Margaret Fuller was an American writer and women's rights activist who lived from 1810 to 1850. "The Song That Mother Sang to Cush (In Noah's Ark)" was published in 1843 and reflects the cultural and historical context of the time, which was marked by the growing abolitionist movement and the fight for equal rights for African Americans.

Content:

• "The Song That Mother Sang to Cush" is a narrative poem that tells the story of Cush, a young African boy who is saved from the flood by Noah's ark. The poem emphasizes the importance of family and community, and celebrates the resilience and courage of Cush and his mother. The main themes of the poem include:
• Injustice and Oppression: The poem explores the theme of oppression and injustice, as Cush is punished for the sins of his father and forced to bear the burden of his ancestor's wrongdoing. The poem highlights the arbitrary nature of punishment and the impact it can have on innocent individuals.
• Motherhood and Love: The poem also celebrates the theme of motherhood and the power of a mother's love. The mother in the poem sings a song to her son, Cush, to comfort him and remind him of his worth and dignity, despite the curse that has been placed upon him.
• Resilience and Perseverance: The poem highlights the theme of resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Cush is forced to endure a life of servitude and mistreatment, but he is able to find strength and hope in the love and support of his mother.
• Freedom and Redemption: The poem also explores the theme of freedom and redemption, as Cush longs for release from his bondage and hopes for a better future. The poem suggests that through perseverance and the support of loved ones, one can overcome even the most difficult circumstances and find a way to a better life.

Form:

The poem is written in rhyming couplets with a regular meter, which gives it a sing-song quality. The structure of the poem reflects the children's literature genre, which typically features simple language and a clear moral message. The poem also makes use of repetition, with the refrain "Oh, sing that song again" recurring throughout.

Poetic Elements:

The poem employs various poetic techniques, including metaphor, imagery, and symbolism. For example, the speaker uses the metaphor of a "stormy sea" to describe the chaos and danger of the flood, and the imagery of the "beacon light" to symbolize the hope and resilience of Cush and his mother. The poem also makes use of symbolism, with references to the "dove of peace" and the "rainbow" that evoke images of hope and renewal.

Summary:

"The Song That Mother Sang to Cush" is a powerful and emotional poem that celebrates the resilience and courage of African American families in the face of adversity. The poem's use of repetition and metaphor contributes to its emotional impact and reinforces its central message. The poem's emphasis on the importance of family and community reflects Fuller's commitment to social and cultural change, and her advocacy for equal rights and opportunities for all. Overall, "The Song That Mother Sang to Cush" is a timeless and inspiring work that celebrates the power of hope and resilience in the face of hardship.