Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"International Incidents" by Robert Myles Hershon is a poem that unfolds in three distinct sections, each exploring the nuances of cultural identity and the often awkward, humorous, and poignant moments that arise from cross-cultural interactions. Through these vignettes, Hershon deftly navigates the complexities of how we perceive ourselves and others in the context of our national identities, offering insights into the broader human experience of belonging and difference.

The first section opens with a conversation about religious observance, specifically referencing a seder, a ritual feast that marks the beginning of the Jewish holiday of Passover. Wang Ping, who attended a seder in Minneapolis, prompts the speaker to reflect on their own religious practices. The speaker's response, "we're not observant," suggests a distance from traditional rituals, framing their religious identity as more about what they neglect than what they practice. This interaction highlights the diversity of religious experiences and the ways in which personal and cultural identities intersect and diverge.

The second vignette shifts the focus to national identity, as teachers in a lounge question a Swedish visitor about her pride in being Swedish. The visitor's response, "I don’t dislike being Swedish," humorously undercuts the expectation of national pride, suggesting that identity is often more complicated and nuanced than simple pride or patriotism. This moment reflects the awkwardness that can arise from trying to connect over national identities, especially when assumptions are made about how individuals should feel about their own cultures.

The final section introduces a moment of rarity and surprise in a bar where a man loudly wonders who has ever met a Bulgarian. The sudden appearance of two Bulgarian sisters challenges his assumption about the rarity of encountering Bulgarians, creating a brief connection that is both humorous and fleeting. This encounter emphasizes the randomness and unpredictability of cross-cultural interactions, as well as the brief connections that can emerge from them.

Together, these three sections paint a picture of the diverse ways in which individuals navigate their cultural, religious, and national identities. Hershon's poem invites readers to consider the complexities of identity and the often unexpected moments of connection and misunderstanding that occur when different cultures intersect. Through a lens of humor and empathy, "International Incidents" encourages a deeper appreciation for the rich tapestry of human experience shaped by our varied backgrounds.

POEM TEXT: https://poets.org/poem/international-incidents

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