Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Haircut" by Elizabeth Alexander is a richly detailed and introspective poem that explores themes of identity, cultural heritage, and connection to place. Set in Harlem, the poem recounts the speaker's experience of getting a haircut and reflects on her personal and familial ties to the neighborhood, as well as the broader context of African American history and culture.

Setting and Cultural Landscape:

The poem is set in Harlem, a neighborhood in New York City known for its significant role in African American history and culture. The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture and the former Harlem "Y" barbershop serve as important cultural landmarks that anchor the poem in a specific historical and cultural context.

Personal and Familial Connections:

The speaker's visit to the barbershop is not just a routine errand but an act laden with personal and familial significance. She recalls her father getting his hair cut at the same barbershop, her grandfather's long history in Harlem, and other relatives who contributed to the community. These reflections create a sense of deep, multigenerational connection to Harlem.

Cultural Heritage and Art:

The mention of the Aaron Douglas mural in the barbershop introduces a significant element of African American art and history. Douglas was a prominent figure in the Harlem Renaissance, and his artwork is emblematic of the cultural flourishing during that period. The speaker's admiration for Douglas's work, particularly "Building More Stately Mansions," underscores the importance of art in shaping and preserving cultural identity.

Exploring Identity and Belonging:

Throughout the poem, the speaker grapples with her sense of belonging in Harlem. Despite her familial ties to the area, she questions her connection to the neighborhood and its cultural legacy. The line "What am I always listening for in Harlem? A voice that says, 'This is your place, too,'" highlights this search for a sense of belonging and recognition.

Reflections on Black Culture:

The speaker contemplates the nature of black culture and her place within it. She ponders the meaning of Harlem's history, the legacy of figures like Fats Waller, and the ever-changing landscape of the neighborhood. The poem raises questions about the definition of black culture and the individual's relationship to it.

New York Identity and Self-Reflection:

In the concluding lines, as the speaker looks at her reflection in the mirror with a new haircut, she asserts her identity as a "New York girl," a "New York woman," and a "flygirl." This moment of self-recognition in the midst of a fading mural symbolizes the dynamic and evolving nature of identity, especially within the rich cultural tapestry of Harlem.

In summary, "Haircut" by Elizabeth Alexander is a contemplative and vividly descriptive poem that delves into themes of personal identity, cultural heritage, and the complexities of belonging. Through the lens of a simple haircut, the poem explores the deep connections between individual identity, familial history, and the broader African American cultural experience. Alexander's detailed observations and reflections create a rich narrative that captures the essence of Harlem and the speaker's place within it.

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