Narrative Poem example essay topic
382 words
Each poems subject is based around a person's ethnicticity. The common theme is racism, prejudice, and stereotyping of individuals who are non-white. These poems were all wrote at a time were segregation and equal rights were becoming a major issue. Even though laws for equality were being established, sadly, discrimination was still being used against those of color. "Recipe" by Janice Mirikitani, is a narrative poem regarding a persons facial features. Miriketani gives directions on how to temporarily change the shape of your eyes to be round. The speakers' knowledge of experience is heard throughout this poem. The diction is simple to understand and the message it sends indicates the pain endured by being a victim of racism and the extent one would go to too "fit in". The last line, "Do Not Cry" (16), indicates Mirikitanis's trength and willingness to strive ahead no matter what.
"Personal Question" by Diane Burns, is a narrative poem focusing on a conversation between two men, one being a Native American, the other is not. Burns wrote this poem in a manner to reveal ones ignorance towards a person's race, culture and feelings. Burns interprets this message using simple diction, with a humor format. Throughout the poem, the Native American shows tolerance, but disgust which indicates to the reader that the Native American has had this type of conversation before. Burns clearly reveals how being stereotyped according to your race can be ignorantly done by an individual who has no harmful intentions, just interests.
"Ballad of a Landlord" by Langston Hughs. A narrative poem about how a black man is being treated. Not just by his landlord by society in general. Racism is the theme to this poem, which is heard in an erythema tic tone. "Landlord, Landlord" (1), sets the rhythm that is carried throughout the poem.
Hughs blends the tone with the diction quite well. It allows the reader to experience some enjoyment while reading content regarding such a serious issue. The poems portray some form of discrimination regarding individuals who are not white. Pain, hardship is relevant within the reading, but also strength and the willingness to survive hatred and ignorance.
