Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"I Am High on the Man Called Crazy" by Lucille Clifton is a compelling and intense poem that celebrates a figure of transformative power and radical change. Through vivid imagery and a tone of admiration, Clifton presents a character who defies societal norms and expectations, reshaping negative identities into positive affirmations of self. This "man called crazy" is depicted as a revolutionary figure, perhaps symbolic of leaders or movements that have challenged the status quo and fought against oppression and racial injustice.

The poem opens with the speaker expressing an exhilarated state of admiration for the man's ability to redefine what it means to be called "nigger," a term historically loaded with racism and degradation. By transforming "nigger into prince," the man performs a radical act of reclamation and empowerment, asserting the dignity and royalty of Black identity in the face of dehumanization. This act of renaming is powerful, signaling a refusal to accept the labels imposed by an oppressive society.

The phrase "broken his words on every ear" suggests that the man's message is both unavoidable and revolutionary, shattering previous conceptions and forcing all who hear to confront a new reality. His voice and his message are portrayed as instruments of change, breaking through barriers of ignorance and resistance.

Clifton describes the man's "nose is sharp with courage," using physical imagery to convey his bravery and determination. Courage, in this context, is not just a personal attribute but a weapon against fear and complacency, cutting through the air with precision and resolve.

The man's willingness to "give his own teeth to eat devils" metaphorically speaks to his readiness to confront and consume the evils of society, using his very body as a tool in the fight against injustice. That he has "bitten sons out of mine" suggests a generative aspect to his actions, creating new generations who inherit his strength, courage, and defiance. This line could imply that his influence extends beyond the personal to inspire others, fostering a legacy of resistance and empowerment.

"I Am High on the Man Called Crazy" is a powerful ode to those who dare to challenge oppressive systems and rewrite narratives of identity and worth. Lucille Clifton celebrates the transformative power of radical action and the individuals who, deemed "crazy" by a society that seeks to marginalize them, emerge as leaders and visionaries. The poem is a tribute to the resilience and revolutionary spirit of those who have fought for justice and equality, reminding readers of the profound impact of reclaiming one's identity and speaking truth to power.

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