Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Right On: White America" by Sonia Sanchez is a sharp and critical reflection on the history and present reality of America, particularly through the lens of racial dynamics and violence. The poem juxtaposes the romanticized image of the American frontier with the harsh realities faced by Black Americans, highlighting the continuity of struggle and the persistent threat of violence.

The poem begins by invoking the mythos of America as a "pioneer land," a phrase that evokes the image of a vast, unexplored territory full of promise and opportunity. However, Sanchez quickly subverts this romantic notion by adding, "once." This word signals a shift from past ideals to a present disillusionment, suggesting that whatever promise the pioneer spirit might have held has long since faded.

The mention of "no mo / indians blowing / custer’s mind" alludes to the violent encounters between Native Americans and U.S. military forces, specifically referencing the Battle of Little Bighorn where General Custer was defeated. By highlighting the absence of "indians" (a term here reflecting the language of the time), Sanchez points to the erasure of Indigenous peoples and their narratives in the mainstream American historical consciousness. The phrase "blowing / custer’s mind / with a different / image of america" suggests that the true diversity and complexity of America's history have been overshadowed by dominant, often white-centric narratives.

Sanchez continues with a critique of the American fascination with violence: "this country / might have / needed shoot/ / outs/daily/ / once." The reference to "shootouts" evokes the imagery of the Wild West, a period often glamorized in American culture for its rugged individualism and lawlessness. However, Sanchez implies that this era of violent encounters is an outdated notion, noting, "there ain’t / no mo real/white/ allamerican / bad/guys." This line critiques the trope of the white, male hero or antihero in American storytelling, suggesting that such figures are a relic of the past.

The poem shifts focus to the present, starkly contrasting the historical "bad/guys" with the reality of "just. / u & me. / blk/and un/armed." Here, Sanchez brings attention to the vulnerability of Black Americans, who often face violence without the means or societal support to protect themselves. The use of "u & me" creates a direct and personal connection between the speaker and the reader, emphasizing a shared experience or awareness.

The repetition of "this country might have / been a pion / eer land. once." serves to reinforce the initial critique, while also setting up the final, more contemporary observation. The poem concludes with a powerful image: "check out / the falling / gun/shells / on our blk/tomorrows." This metaphor poignantly captures the ongoing violence faced by Black communities. The "falling / gun/shells" symbolize not only the physical violence but also the pervasive fear and uncertainty about the future ("blk/tomorrows").

The form of "Right On: White America" enhances its thematic content, using visual and structural elements to underscore the critique of American historical narratives and the ongoing struggles faced by marginalized communities. The free verse structure allows Sanchez to break conventional poetic boundaries, mirroring the poem's challenge to conventional views of American history and identity.

Overall, "Right On: White America" is a poignant commentary on the discrepancies between America's idealized past and the lived realities of its marginalized populations. Sanchez uses historical references and contemporary realities to critique the persistent issues of racial injustice and violence. The poem challenges readers to reconsider the narratives that define American identity and to acknowledge the ongoing struggles faced by Black Americans in a society that often remains blind to their experiences. Through her concise and potent language, Sanchez calls for a critical re-examination of American history and its implications for the present and future.

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