Lorena Poem by Lucille Clifton

Lorena

Rating: 3.9


it lay in my palm soft and trembled
as a new bird and i thought about
authority and how it always insisted
on itself, how it was master
of the man, how it measured him, never
was ignored or denied, and how it promised
there would be sweetness if it was obeyed
just like the saints do, like the angels
and i opened the window and held out my
uncupped hand; i swear to god
i thought it could fly

COMMENTS OF THE POEM
Stephen W 14 September 2014

There's something horrible about this.

3 2 Reply
Liliana ~el 14 September 2013

Way deep. chilling... odd

4 1 Reply
Colleen Courtney 15 May 2014

Find this piece to be deep and a little perplexing.

4 1 Reply
Sylvia Frances Chan 13 March 2024

THREE: The act of opening the window and extending an uncupped hand suggests a desire for freedom or release from this authority. The poem subtly questions the nature of power and the choices we make in response

1 0 Reply
Sylvia Frances Chan 04 April 2024

Revisiting this poem, since it is again chosen as The Modern Poem Of The day. CONGRATS!

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Sylvia Frances Chan 04 April 2024

I have still the same vision: The poem subtly questions the nature of power and the choices we make in response. Sublimest response!

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Sylvia Frances Chan 04 April 2024

Rereading this energetic poem gives me more power and strenght to continue my path in life. Myriad Stars at the fullest! Love it more!

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Sylvia Frances Chan 04 April 2024

Revisiting this poem, gives me more spirit!

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Sylvia Frances Chan 04 April 2024

The theme is about authority and its impact. The poem describes a moment when the poetess holds something soft and trembling in her palm, akin to a new bird. A very fascinating poem. TFS

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Freni Karaluthara 13 March 2024

The imagery of the new bird trembling in your palm, and the contemplation of authority and obedience, struck a chord within me. Your ability to convey such complex emotions and thoughts in such a straightforward manner is truly admirable.

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Lucille Clifton

Lucille Clifton

Baltimore, Maryland
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