Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

June Jordan's poem "1977: Poem for Mrs. Fannie Lou Hamer" is a powerful tribute to the resilience, strength, and courage of Fannie Lou Hamer, a prominent civil rights activist known for her relentless fight against racial injustice in the United States. The poem intertwines personal reminiscence with historical context, creating a vivid portrait of Hamer's indomitable spirit.

The poem opens with a direct address, "You used to say, 'June? / Honey when you come down here you / supposed to stay with me. Where / else?'" This intimate tone immediately establishes a personal connection between the speaker and Hamer. It emphasizes Hamer's hospitality and sense of community, setting the stage for a narrative that blends the personal with the political.

Jordan swiftly transitions to the broader societal context in which Hamer lived and fought. The poem describes the pervasive racism and violence of the time, capturing the essence of a hostile environment: "against the beer the shotguns and the / point of view of whitemen don’ / never see Black anybodies without / some violent itch start up." This vivid imagery portrays the constant threat of violence faced by Black people, particularly in the South, and underscores the courage required to stand up against such oppression.

Hamer's arrest and brutal beating are recounted with stark, unflinching language: "Then jailed you / beat you brutal / bloody/battered/beat / you blue beyond the feeling / of the terrible." The repetition of "beat" emphasizes the brutality and the relentless nature of the violence inflicted upon her. Despite this, Hamer's resilience shines through: "And failed to stop you. / Only God could but He / wouldn’t stop / you / fortress from self- / pity." Jordan highlights Hamer's unwavering strength and refusal to succumb to self-pity, portraying her as a fortress of resilience.

The poem then shifts to a more personal memory, capturing a seemingly mundane moment that nonetheless required courage: "I remember finding you inside the laundromat / in Ruleville / lion spine relaxed/hell / what’s the point to courage / when you washin clothes?" This scene underscores the everyday bravery of Hamer, who, even while performing ordinary tasks, remained a target for those who sought to silence her. The line "that took courage / just to sit there/target" underscores the ever-present danger and the quiet, steadfast bravery required to simply live as a Black activist in that era.

Jordan continues to weave personal anecdotes with broader themes of resistance and community. Hamer's defiance in the face of threats is captured in the line: "BULLETS OR NO BULLETS! / THE FOOD IS COOKED / AN’ GETTIN COLD!" This declaration highlights her fearless spirit and her commitment to her community, emphasizing that life and resistance continued despite the ever-present danger.

The poem concludes with a powerful image of communal strength and unity, symbolized by the shared meal: "We ate / A family tremulous but fortified / by turnips/okra/handpicked / like the lilies / filled to the very living / full / one solid gospel / (sanctified) / one gospel / (peace)." The use of food as a metaphor for nourishment and solidarity reinforces the idea of community resilience. The imagery of "one full Black lily / luminescent / in a homemade field / of love" beautifully encapsulates the enduring spirit of Hamer and the strength found in unity and love.

Through vivid imagery, personal anecdotes, and historical context, June Jordan's poem pays a heartfelt tribute to Fannie Lou Hamer, capturing her courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice. The poem serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for civil rights and the enduring legacy of their struggle.

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