Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Coming of Kali" by Lucille Clifton delves into themes of divine power, femininity, and the duality of creation and destruction through the depiction of Kali, a significant figure in Hindu mythology. Known for her formidable imagery, Kali is often represented with a garland of skulls and multiple arms, symbolizing her power over death and her role as a fierce protector. Clifton's portrayal of Kali emphasizes the goddess's complexity, highlighting the blend of terror and maternal affection, strength and softness, that she embodies. This poem, like much of Clifton's work, explores the depth of female strength and the inherent power within the natural and spiritual worlds.

The poem introduces Kali as "the Black God, Kali, a woman God and terrible with her skulls and breasts." This juxtaposition of skulls, symbolizing death and destruction, with breasts, symbols of life and nourishment, immediately captures the essence of Kali's dual nature. Clifton’s choice to describe Kali as both "terrible" and a "woman God" underscores the power and complexity of the divine feminine, challenging conventional perceptions of femininity as solely gentle or nurturing.

Kali's message, "i am one side of your skin, she sings, softness is the other," speaks to the intrinsic duality within each individual. This duality is not presented as conflicting but as complementary forces that exist within us. By stating that she is "one side of your skin," Kali asserts her presence within all beings, suggesting that the capacity for both creation and destruction, strength and vulnerability, resides within us. The repetition of "you know you know me well, she sings," reinforces this message, emphasizing a universal recognition of Kali's essence within our own experiences and nature.

Clifton's use of the term "sings" to describe Kali's communication imbues the poem with a sense of intimacy and lyricism. It suggests that Kali's truths are not delivered through dogma or decree but through a song that resonates with the soul's deep-seated knowledge. This approach allows the reader to engage with the poem on an intuitive level, reflecting Clifton's skill in making profound spiritual and philosophical concepts accessible and relatable.

"The Coming of Kali" is a powerful meditation on the divine feminine and the complexities of human nature. By invoking Kali, Clifton invites readers to acknowledge and embrace the full spectrum of their being, recognizing the strength, resilience, and depth that come from accepting both the light and dark within us. The poem stands as a testament to Clifton's ability to weave together the spiritual and the personal, offering insights into the nature of power, femininity, and the transformative potential of embracing our inherent duality.

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