Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Leukemia as White Rabbit" by Lucille Clifton is a profoundly moving and vivid poem that personifies leukemia, using the metaphor of the White Rabbit from "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" to explore the experience of dealing with a relentless and life-altering disease. Clifton's unique approach intertwines the surreal and the all-too-real, capturing the tumultuous journey of a patient navigating the world of medical diagnosis and treatment.

The poem begins with "running always running murmuring," instantly evoking the image of the White Rabbit, known for his constant hurry and worry about being late. Clifton cleverly adapts this image to reflect the relentless nature of leukemia, which similarly infiltrates a person's life, leaving a trail of upheaval and urgency in its wake. The repetition of "running" underscores the persistent and invasive character of the disease, which allows for no rest or respite.

The phrase "she will be furious she will be / furious" is loaded with emotion, hinting at the anger and frustration felt by those who are diagnosed with leukemia. The repetition emphasizes the intensity of these feelings, portraying them as a natural response to the disease's intrusion. This anger is not only directed at the illness itself but also at the helplessness and vulnerability it imposes on the individual.

Clifton's use of "a great / cabbage of a watch that tells only / terminal time" is a striking image. The "cabbage of a watch" suggests something absurd and nonsensical, aligning with the surreal elements of Alice's adventures. However, the notion of "terminal time" introduces a somber tone, reflecting the harsh reality of a life-threatening diagnosis. This juxtaposition of the absurd with the tragic highlights the surreal experience of grappling with a terminal illness, where time becomes a focal point of both hope and despair.

The "rabbit hole of diagnosticians" further extends the metaphor, likening the medical journey to Alice's descent into Wonderland—a confusing and often disorienting realm filled with challenges and unknowns. The commands "off with her hair off with her skin" echo the Queen of Hearts' infamous decree, "Off with their heads!" but here they refer to the side effects of cancer treatment, such as hair loss and skin changes, adding another layer of loss and identity disturbance for the patient.

The poem concludes with the powerful affirmation "i am i am i am furious," a declaration of the speaker's existence, anger, and defiance in the face of leukemia. This repetition serves as a stark counter to the disease's attempts to diminish her, asserting her presence and resistance.

Through "Leukemia as White Rabbit," Lucille Clifton offers a poignant and imaginative exploration of the experience of living with leukemia. The poem's vivid imagery and emotional depth provide insight into the turmoil, resilience, and profound anger that accompany a battle with cancer. Clifton's ability to weave together the fantastical elements of a beloved story with the brutal reality of illness results in a work that is both captivating and heart-wrenchingly honest.

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