Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Hag Riding" by Lucille Clifton is a dynamic and spirited poem that explores themes of identity, heritage, and empowerment through the metaphor of a mythical ride. Clifton draws upon the imagery of witchcraft and spirit possession ("hag riding") to depict a profound connection to her African roots and the liberating force of embracing one's lineage and inner strength. The poem delves into the journey of self-discovery and the reclaiming of power that has been marginalized or suppressed over generations.

The poem begins with a reflective question, "why / is what i ask myself," setting a tone of introspection and the search for understanding. This inquiry hints at the deeper questions of identity and belonging that underlie the poem. Clifton's mention of "the afrikan in me still trying to get home after all these years" speaks to the diasporic longing and the sense of displacement felt by descendants of Africans forced from their homeland through the transatlantic slave trade. This line reflects a yearning to reconnect with ancestral roots and to find a sense of home within oneself.

The imagery of "waking to the heat of morning galloping down the highway of my life" is vibrant and evocative, suggesting the relentless passage of time and the urgency to seize control of one's destiny. The dawn is not just the start of a new day but a metaphor for awakening to one's potential and the possibilities that lie ahead.

Clifton describes a moment of transformation and empowerment as "something hopeful rises in me," a force that compels her to action, to "lob my fierce thigh high over the rump of the day." This act of mounting and riding the day like a horse is a powerful symbol of taking charge of one's life and circumstances. It's an assertion of agency and the ability to navigate the challenges that life presents with confidence and determination.

The phrase "and honey i ride / i ride" is a declaration of freedom and exhilaration. Clifton uses the act of riding as a metaphor for living boldly and unapologetically, embracing the journey with all its ups and downs. The repetition of "i ride" emphasizes a sense of joy and triumph, capturing the essence of liberation that comes from acknowledging and celebrating one's heritage, strength, and individuality.

"Hag Riding" is a testament to Lucille Clifton's skill in weaving together personal and cultural narratives to express universal themes of empowerment, resilience, and the search for identity. Through her imaginative use of language and symbolism, Clifton invites readers to consider their own journeys of self-discovery and the ways in which they can reclaim their power and ride confidently into the challenges and opportunities of their lives.

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