Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"On Biblical Business" by Roque Dalton presents a sharp critique of the use of religious teachings and symbols for imperialistic and capitalist ends. Through contrasting the miraculous acts of Christ with the actions of contemporary powers, particularly the United States, Dalton underscores the hypocrisy and exploitation inherent in using the Bible as a tool for sustaining global inequality.

The poem opens by referencing the biblical account of Christ feeding the multitude with loaves and fishes, an act that Dalton acknowledges as both benevolent and miraculous. This act symbolizes not only Christ's compassion but also his ability to provide for the basic needs of the poor and hungry directly and miraculously.

However, Dalton quickly shifts the focus to the present, drawing a stark contrast between the actions of Christ and those of "the Americans." He criticizes the modern practice of spreading Bibles around the world as a substitute for addressing the material needs of the impoverished. This proliferation of Bibles, facilitated by "young blondes" trained by generals, is depicted as a strategic move to pacify the poor with spiritual solace instead of providing them with tangible assistance, such as food.

The mention of "young blondes" dispatched to distribute Bibles carries a colonial undertone, suggesting an effort to impose not just a spiritual but also a cultural influence on the recipient populations. The training by generals implies a militaristic and strategic approach to what might otherwise be seen as a purely religious or humanitarian mission. This juxtaposition of religious mission with military strategy highlights the insidious nature of using faith as a means of exerting influence and control.

Dalton's use of "big business" to describe the spread of hunger as part of a larger capitalist system critiques the commodification of basic human needs and the exploitation of the poor for profit. The poem suggests that the same powers that spread the Bible to preach hope and salvation are responsible for perpetuating economic systems that lead to widespread poverty and hunger.

The irony of "multiply[ing] the production of Bibles" instead of bread and fish starkly emphasizes the disparity between spiritual promises and material realities. By invoking the image of the Bible—a symbol of spiritual nourishment and guidance—Dalton critiques the failure of powerful nations to address the physical needs of the poor, implying that spiritual guidance cannot substitute for basic human necessities.

"On Biblical Business" is a poignant critique of the manipulation of religious faith for political and economic ends. Through drawing a contrast between the compassionate acts of Christ and the exploitative practices of contemporary powers, Dalton challenges the reader to question the motives behind religious outreach and to recognize the need for direct action in addressing global inequality and hunger.

POEM TEXT: https://www.chrisoz.de/2022/08/roque-dalton-on-the-bible-business/

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...