Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Muriel Rukeyser's poem "Don Baty, The Draft Resister" is a powerful and evocative piece that captures the spirit of resistance and solidarity in the face of oppression. Through the figure of Don Baty, a draft resister, Rukeyser explores themes of identity, community, and the transformative power of collective action.

The poem opens with a vivid scene at an "altar-table," suggesting a solemn and sacred gathering. The use of the first person, "I Muriel," immediately places the poet within the narrative, emphasizing her personal involvement and commitment to the cause. The young man, Don Baty, stands with the group, embodying the spirit of resistance: "I Muriel fell away in me / in dread but in a welcoming." This line conveys a sense of vulnerability and fear, but also a deep acceptance of the role she is about to assume.

"I am Don Baty then I said / before the blue-coated police / ever entered and took him." This declaration of identification with Don Baty symbolizes a profound act of solidarity. By proclaiming "I am Don Baty," Rukeyser dissolves the boundaries between herself and the draft resister, embodying his resistance as her own. The presence of the "blue-coated police" introduces an element of imminent danger and confrontation.

The collective voice emerges: "I am Don Baty, say we all / we eat our bread, we drink our wine." This communal affirmation highlights the shared commitment to the cause and the symbolic act of communion, reinforcing the idea of unity and shared sacrifice. The line "Our heritance has come, we know, / your arrest is mine. Yes." underscores the interconnectedness of their struggle, suggesting that any injustice faced by one member of the community affects them all.

The reference to Beethoven saying "Amen Amen Amen Amen Amen" invokes a sense of solemnity and spiritual affirmation, connecting their resistance to a broader, almost transcendent, context. The repetition of "Amen" emphasizes the resolve and conviction of the group.

"There is a pounding at the door; / now we bring our lives entire." The external threat is palpable, but it also serves as a catalyst for the group to fully commit themselves to their cause. The act of bringing "our lives entire" signifies a willingness to dedicate everything to the fight for justice and peace.

The poem's closing lines return to a personal and intimate tone: "I am Don Baty. My dear, my dear, / in a kind of welcoming, / here we meet, here we bring / ourselves." The repetition of "my dear" adds a tender, human element to the resistance, suggesting that the bonds of affection and solidarity are central to their struggle. The phrase "they pound on the wall of time" evokes a sense of historical urgency and the timeless nature of their fight.

Finally, the mention of "The newborn are with us singing" brings a hopeful note, suggesting that their actions will have a lasting impact on future generations. The image of newborns singing symbolizes renewal and the continuity of the resistance movement.

"Don Baty, The Draft Resister" is a deeply moving poem that captures the essence of collective resistance and the transformative power of solidarity. Through vivid imagery and a powerful narrative voice, Rukeyser conveys the strength and resilience of those who stand against oppression, celebrating the enduring human spirit that unites individuals in the pursuit of justice.

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