Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Come Home from the Movies" by Lucille Clifton is a powerful call to action directed at Black youth, urging them to transcend the stereotypes and expectations imposed on them by society and media. Through a direct and poignant message, Clifton invites young Black individuals to embrace their agency, to contribute positively to their communities, and to redefine the narrative around Black identity. The poem blends a sense of communal responsibility with individual empowerment, highlighting the potential for change and growth within the Black community.

The opening lines, "Come home from the movies, / Black girls and boys," immediately establish a conversational tone, as if Clifton is speaking directly to the youth. The reference to coming home from the movies suggests a return from a world of fantasy and entertainment to the reality of their daily lives, which Clifton describes as "cold as our neighborhood." This contrast between the escapism offered by cinema and the harsh realities faced by Black communities underscores the disconnect between media representations and lived experiences.

Clifton's admonition, "Don’t be the show," is a powerful directive to resist being reduced to entertainment or spectacle, often portrayed through harmful stereotypes in media and popular culture. She encourages the youth to actively engage in constructive and nurturing activities, such as planting flowers and reading, as opposed to passive consumption or participation in negative cycles ("stop making some babies and raise them"). These actions symbolize growth, education, and responsibility—key elements in fostering a positive and sustainable community.

The poem also addresses generational dynamics, urging young Black individuals to "Show our fathers how to walk like men," which can be interpreted as a call for a redefinition of masculinity and leadership within the community. Clifton acknowledges the complex interplay between strength and vulnerability, suggesting that the capacity for emotional expression and responsible action constitutes true manhood, rather than the performative aspects often associated with masculinity ("they already know how to dance").

"Come Home from the Movies" is a poignant reminder of the power of individual and collective agency in challenging and reshaping societal narratives. Clifton's message is one of hope and empowerment, urging Black youth to take an active role in their personal development and in the betterment of their communities. The poem resonates with timeless themes of identity, responsibility, and the transformative power of conscious action, making it a compelling call to resist societal constraints and to strive for a more positive and empowered self-definition.

POEM TEXT: https://enjoyceinglife.tumblr.com/post/11090403897/come-home-from-the-movies-lucille-clifton

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