Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Dulzura" by Sandra Cisneros is a passionate and intimate poem that explores the desire for a love that is deeply rooted in one's cultural and linguistic identity. Through vivid imagery and tender language, Cisneros conveys the speaker's yearning to be loved and understood in the most authentic and personal way possible—through her native Spanish. This poem not only speaks to the sensual and emotional aspects of love but also delves into the complexities of identity, language, and cultural belonging.

The poem begins with a direct appeal, "Make love to me in Spanish," setting the tone for a deeply personal and culturally specific expression of love. The speaker rejects "that other tongue," implying a language that is foreign or less intimate, in favor of Spanish, which she associates with closeness ("juntito a mi"), tenderness, and the comforting melodies sung to children. This choice of language is not merely a preference but a profound need to connect on a level that transcends words, to a place where language is felt and lived.

Cisneros uses the metaphor of being cradled "inside the mouth of my heart" and "inside the harp of my wrists" to convey the desire for a love that penetrates the deepest parts of the self. The "sweet meat of the mango" and the "gold that dangles / from my ears and neck" evoke sensuality and richness, suggesting a love that is both nourishing and luxurious, steeped in the textures and flavors of a shared cultural heritage.

The command to "Say my name. Say it. / The way it’s supposed to be said" underscores the importance of identity and recognition. For the speaker, being called by her name in the language that resonates with her soul is an act of affirmation, a confirmation of her existence and worth in the eyes of her lover. It's a call to be known and loved for who she truly is, beyond the surface level.

"Dulzura" culminates in the powerful line "I want to know that I knew you / even before I knew you," expressing a longing for a predestined connection that transcends time and space—a bond that is felt in the bones and the blood, rooted in a shared language and culture. This line captures the essence of the poem: the search for a love that is not only emotionally and physically fulfilling but also culturally affirming and spiritually profound.

Through "Dulzura," Sandra Cisneros captures the universal desire for love and connection, while highlighting the unique ways in which language and culture shape our experiences of intimacy and identity. The poem is a beautiful testament to the power of words to bridge hearts and souls, inviting readers to reflect on the deep connections that make us feel truly seen and cherished.

POEM TEXT: https://acupofpoetry.tumblr.com/post/96646983409/dulzura-by-sandra-cisneros

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