Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Poem for Ella Fitzgerald" by Sonia Sanchez is a vibrant and lyrical tribute to the legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald. Through a rich tapestry of imagery and rhythmic language, Sanchez captures the essence of Fitzgerald's musical prowess and the profound impact she had on her audience. The poem celebrates Fitzgerald as a powerful and transformative presence, likening her to natural phenomena and celestial bodies, highlighting her status as a musical icon and cultural force.

The poem opens with a dramatic entrance, "when she came on the stage, this Ella," suggesting a momentous occasion. The anticipation is palpable as the imagery conjures "rumors of hurricanes" and the "moon turned red in the sky," evoking a sense of awe and wonder. Ella Fitzgerald is introduced as "queen Ella," immediately establishing her regal and commanding presence. The repetition of her name, "Ella, Ella," reinforces her significance and the reverence with which she is regarded.

As Fitzgerald begins to sing, her voice is described with a variety of rich metaphors. She is a "three agèd woman" with "nightingales in her throat," suggesting the beauty and maturity of her voice. The "squads of horns" that greet her emphasize the musicality and celebration that accompany her performances. The poem paints a vivid picture of her voice's impact, as "streams of violins and pianos / splashed their welcome," breaking through the audience's "stained glass silences" and "braided spaces."

The poem vividly captures the magical quality of Fitzgerald's voice and performance, using both literal and figurative language to convey her artistry. Her voice is described as "smoking with life," and the playful lyrics of "A-Tisket, A-Tasket" are woven into the poem, showcasing her ability to breathe life into even the simplest of songs. The mention of the song's lyrics, "my little yellow / basket-i wrote a / letter to my mom and / on the way i dropped it," highlights her playful and engaging performance style.

Sanchez reflects on the audience's admiration for Fitzgerald, noting how they first encountered her "navigating / an apollo stage." She is described as "shiny and pure woman / sugar and spice woman," emphasizing her multifaceted nature and the warmth she exudes. Her voice is likened to a "nun's whisper" and a "faraway horn / questioning the wind," illustrating its gentle yet powerful quality. The poem elevates Fitzgerald to a near-mythical status, calling her "first lady of tongues" and depicting her voice as capable of "walking on water."

The poem also delves into the spiritual and transcendent aspects of Fitzgerald's music. Her performances are described as "a thousand sermons / concealed in her bones," suggesting a deep, spiritual connection that she shares with her audience. The phrase "voice chasing the / morning waves" evokes a sense of her voice's timeless and boundless nature. Sanchez portrays Fitzgerald's singing as a divine experience, one that brings the audience into a shared, sacred space.

The poem concludes with a personal reflection, as the speaker recalls waiting for Fitzgerald's appearance, emphasizing the anticipation and the joy of witnessing her performance. The imagery of "yellow butterflies" and "the day was yellow and silent" evokes a sense of serene beauty, mirroring the transformative power of Fitzgerald's music. Sanchez describes Fitzgerald as a cosmic figure, likening her to Nut, the Egyptian sky goddess, arching over the audience and enveloping them in her music. The poem ends with a call for goodness, a plea for kindness and grace, encapsulated in the repeated refrain, "Lady. Lady. Lady. be good."

In "A Poem for Ella Fitzgerald," Sonia Sanchez masterfully captures the essence of Ella Fitzgerald's musical genius and her impact on those who had the privilege of experiencing her performances. The poem celebrates her as a transcendent figure, a musical and cultural icon whose voice has the power to transform, heal, and uplift. Through rich, evocative language and a deep sense of admiration, Sanchez pays tribute to Fitzgerald's enduring legacy and the profound joy she brought to the world.

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