Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"To P.J. (2 Yrs Old Who Sed Write a Poem for Me in Portland, Oregon)" by Sonia Sanchez is a heartfelt and tender tribute to a young child, capturing the innocence and beauty of a two-year-old boy named P.J. Through playful language and a sense of awe, Sanchez expresses her admiration and the deep inspiration she draws from the child's pure and unblemished presence.

The poem opens with the poet's wishful reflection, "if i cud ever write a / poem as beautiful as u / little 2/yr/old/brotha." This line immediately establishes the child's beauty and essence as something beyond the reach of words, setting a high standard for poetic expression. The use of "cud" and "u" reflects a casual, affectionate tone, suggesting an intimate and familiar relationship. The term "little 2/yr/old/brotha" conveys a sense of community and endearment, emphasizing the child's youthful innocence and connection to the poet.

Sanchez imagines the joy and exuberance she would feel if she could capture the child's beauty in poetry: "I wud laugh, jump, leap / up and touch the stars." This vivid imagery conveys a sense of boundless joy and elation, as if achieving such a poetic feat would transcend ordinary experiences and reach the celestial. The metaphor of "touch the stars" suggests an aspiration to achieve something sublime and otherworldly, reflecting the poet's admiration for the child's purity and potential.

The poet further expresses that P.J. and other children like him, "Morani and Mungu," are "our blue/blk/stars that / will shine on our lives." This comparison elevates the children to celestial beings, symbolizing hope, guidance, and inspiration. The phrase "blue/blk/stars" blends the colors blue and black, often associated with depth, mystery, and the universe, highlighting the children's significance and the potential they hold. Sanchez suggests that these children "makes us finally BE," implying that they give purpose, meaning, and a sense of identity to the community.

The repetition of the line "if i cud ever write a poem as beautiful / as u, little 2/yr/old/brotha," underscores the poet's admiration and the challenge of capturing the child's essence in words. Sanchez concludes with a whimsical and hyperbolic statement: "poetry wud go out of bizness." This humorous assertion suggests that the child's beauty is so profound that, if it could be captured in a poem, there would be no further need for poetry, as nothing could surpass it.

"To P.J." is a celebration of the beauty, innocence, and potential embodied by a young child. Sanchez uses a conversational and affectionate tone, blending playful language with profound admiration. The poem conveys a sense of wonder and joy, highlighting the inspirational power of children and their ability to bring meaning and purpose to life. Through this tribute, Sanchez acknowledges the limitations of poetry in capturing the essence of pure beauty and expresses a deep appreciation for the unadulterated presence of the young. The poem resonates with a universal sentiment of awe at the natural purity and potential of children, celebrating their role as the stars that illuminate our lives.

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