Over the past few weeks, our African American Literature class has worked on the poetic productions by Black artists in the US. Now, as a person who spent much of her life feeling afraid of poetry, I certainly felt for my students in those first few days. They were sure that each poem had a "right" and "wrong" analysis, and they were convinced their readings were "wrong." Together, we have overcome some of those assumptions about ourselves as readers and new poetry scholars.
Students presented their ideas in short presentations about various Black authors, including Nikki Giovanni, Carolyn Rodgers, Amiri Baraka, Haki Madhubuti, Kevin Young, and Elizabeth Alexander. Though initially nervous, many students began to dig their poets, or gained a new appreciation of a piece based on the presentation of a classmate. We'll share some of those student ideas on the blog in the future, but I asked students to take a moment to reflect on their favorite poem last week. Below are a few responses:
Mario - "We Real Cool" (by Brooks). It was simple, but also deep!!! Like the message was powerful.
Iriana - "Don't Cry, Scream" (by Madhubuti). I like how (Madhubuti) prepared his thoughts together throughout the poem. I like his story... After listening to the audio I truly heard what he meant."
Dana - "The Last M.F." (by Rodgers) is my favorite. A strong woman will not be controlled by anyone. If a woman bows down to anyone, it makes her weak. The poem uses the word muthaf*cka TEN times to protest to being told how to act."
Chelsea - It was difficult to choose but "Dope" had to be my favorite. Baraka's ability to be intentional about who he's addressing. Without a desire to caress the abandonment of guilt, he plunges forward to address the ugliest of uglies to whomever is open to read his work."
Cameka - "Ego Tripping" (by Giovanni). This poem depicts a person who is confident with where they are from, what they look like, their history, etc. It makes me feel happy when I read it. (Every time).
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