Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"God Send Easter" by Lucille Clifton is a vibrant and celebratory poem that encapsulates themes of renewal, cultural identity, and spiritual jubilation. Through vivid imagery and concise language, Clifton crafts a narrative that transcends the traditional confines of Easter, connecting it to a broader celebration of self, community, and divine joy. The poem is an ode to the resurrection not just of Christ, but of the human spirit, culture, and the beauty inherent in the expression of one's identity.

The opening line, "and we will lace the / jungle on," immediately sets the tone for a transformational experience, suggesting the donning of nature itself as a garment. This act of "lacing on" the jungle speaks to a reclamation of natural and cultural roots, a deliberate embodiment of the vibrant, untamed energy of the natural world. It's a powerful image that evokes a sense of pride and connection to the earth, to origins that are wild and free.

The phrase "brilliant as birds / against the concrete country" contrasts the vivid, living colors of nature and the dull, man-made environment of the "concrete country." Clifton uses this contrast to highlight the resilience and vibrancy of the human spirit in the face of a monochromatic, often oppressive urban landscape. The imagery of birds, symbols of freedom and beauty, further emphasizes the idea of transcendence and liberation.

"Feathers waving as we / dance toward Jesus" introduces a dynamic, kinetic energy to the poem, blending spiritual fervor with physical expression. This line captures the essence of Easter as a celebration of resurrection and renewal, but with a twist that incorporates bodily movement and dance. It's a communal march towards salvation and enlightenment, marked by a palpable joy and an embrace of cultural expressions of worship.

The mention of "sun reflecting mango / and apple as we / glory in our skin" underscores the poem's celebration of cultural and racial identity. Clifton draws attention to the beauty and richness of diversity, using the vibrant colors of fruit as a metaphor for the spectrum of human skin tones. The celebration of skin color, in the context of Easter, suggests a resurrection of self-esteem and pride in one's heritage, a spiritual awakening to the inherent beauty and worth of every individual.

"God Send Easter" is a testament to Lucille Clifton's ability to weave together themes of spirituality, cultural identity, and the celebration of life into a cohesive and uplifting narrative. Through her expert use of imagery and symbolism, Clifton invites readers to view Easter not just as a religious holiday, but as a moment of universal renewal, a time to embrace and express one's identity with joy and pride. The poem is a call to revel in the beauty of creation, in the diversity of the human family, and in the redemptive power of faith and community.

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