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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
Muriel Rukeyser's poem "Wherever" is a stirring call to action, emphasizing the power of creation and nurturing as forms of resistance. Through simple yet profound language, Rukeyser highlights the importance of constructive actions in the face of opposition, transforming every step and every protest into opportunities for growth and positive change. The poem begins with the word "Wherever," immediately establishing a sense of boundlessness and possibility. This word is repeated, creating a rhythmic opening that underscores the universality and applicability of the poem's message: "Wherever / we walk / we will make." This line sets the tone for the rest of the poem, suggesting that every place we go, we have the potential to create and make a difference. Rukeyser continues this theme with "Wherever / we protest / we will go planting." This juxtaposition of protest and planting illustrates a dual approach to activism—resisting injustices while simultaneously fostering new growth and possibilities. The act of planting symbolizes hope, renewal, and the future, suggesting that protests should not only oppose but also build and nurture. The line "Make poems / seed grass / feed a child growing / build a house" lists concrete actions that embody creation and sustenance. Writing poems, planting grass, feeding children, and building houses are all acts that contribute to the well-being and flourishing of individuals and communities. These actions emphasize the tangible ways in which we can make positive changes in our world. Rukeyser then introduces the idea of standing against opposition while continuing to create: "Whatever we stand against / We will stand feeding and seeding." This reinforces the notion that resistance should be accompanied by acts of creation and support. By feeding and seeding, we ensure that our opposition to injustice is rooted in constructive and life-affirming practices. The poem's closing lines bring the message back to the individual: "Wherever / I walk / I will make." This personal declaration underscores the responsibility each person has to contribute to positive change, no matter where they are. It serves as a powerful reminder that individual actions, when combined with those of others, can lead to significant transformations. "Wherever" is a testament to the enduring power of creation and nurturing in the face of adversity. Rukeyser's use of simple, repetitive language reinforces the accessibility and importance of these actions, encouraging readers to incorporate them into their daily lives. The poem's message is clear: no matter the circumstances, we have the capacity to make, to plant, to feed, and to build, thereby fostering a world of hope and possibility.
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