Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Mary's Dream" by Lucille Clifton is a concise yet profound poem that reimagines the Annunciation—the biblical moment when the Angel Gabriel tells Mary she will bear the Son of God. Through this dreamlike reinterpretation, Clifton captures a moment of divine encounter, imbuing it with a sense of personal revelation and universal significance. The poem reflects themes of grace, acceptance, and transformation, distilled into a few potent lines.

The opening phrase, "winged women was saying / 'full of grace' and like," immediately evokes the traditional image of the Annunciation but with a significant alteration: the angel is not a singular masculine figure but rather "winged women," suggesting a collective, feminine divine presence. This shift emphasizes solidarity, comfort, and an intimate understanding among women, suggesting that the divine message is delivered in a manner that is both empowering and deeply personal to Mary.

The phrase "was light beyond sun and words / of a name and a blessing" captures the ineffable nature of the encounter. Clifton uses sparse language to convey the intensity and transcendence of the experience, highlighting the limitations of human language in articulating divine presence and communication. The light "beyond sun" suggests a source of illumination and truth that surpasses earthly understanding, while "words / of a name and a blessing" hint at the transformative power of being named and blessed by the divine.

The line "winged women to only i" underscores the solitary and unique nature of Mary's experience. The use of "only i" emphasizes Mary's singular role in this divine plan, marking her out as chosen for a special purpose. Yet, there's also a sense of intimacy and direct communication between Mary and the "winged women," suggesting a moment of profound connection and recognition.

The poem concludes with Mary's acceptance of her role: "i joined them, whispering / yes." This simple yet powerful affirmation reflects Mary's willingness to embrace her destiny, her consent to participate in the divine plan. Clifton's depiction of Mary's acceptance as a whisper underscores the humility and awe with which she approaches her calling. It is a moment of quiet but immense significance, marking the beginning of a transformation that will have universal repercussions.

"Mary's Dream" distills a pivotal biblical story into a few evocative lines, offering readers a fresh perspective on a familiar narrative. Lucille Clifton's reimagining invites us to consider the themes of divine encounter, grace, and acceptance in new ways, highlighting the power of consent and the profound impact of saying "yes" to one's destiny. Through this poem, Clifton celebrates the strength and faith of Mary, while also exploring the broader implications of divine communication and human agency.

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