Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In the passage "I Was Told I Don't Remember Who," Sonia Sanchez explores themes of memory, trauma, and confrontation within familial relationships. The narrative reflects the ambiguity and haziness of recalled events, as well as the intense emotions tied to these memories.

The opening line, "i was told i don't remember who," sets the tone of uncertainty and confusion. It suggests that the speaker [father] is recounting an event based on hearsay rather than direct experience, highlighting the unreliability of memory and the potential distortion of events over time. This line also introduces a sense of distance from the events described, as the speaker relies on second-hand information.

The subsequent lines describe a male figure who "entered his sister's house" and "cursed me anew." This figure's actions are characterized by aggression and malice, as indicated by the use of "cursed." The phrase "tried to tattoo / her tongue with worms" is a vivid and disturbing metaphor. Tattooing typically symbolizes something permanent, and the choice of "worms" suggests something vile and corrupting. This imagery conveys an attempt to inflict harm, either physically or emotionally, on the sister, possibly through cruel words or manipulative speech.

The lines "tried to arouse / her slumbering a veins to espouse / his venom" continue this metaphor of corruption and manipulation. The use of "arouse her slumbering veins" suggests an attempt to provoke a reaction or awaken dormant feelings. The term "venom" emphasizes the toxic nature of this influence, indicating that the male figure sought to spread his negative emotions or harmful intentions to his sister.

The poem reaches a turning point with the description of the sister's response: "and she leaned slapped him still / stilled his mouth across early morning chill." This action is a moment of defiance and resistance. The sister's slap symbolizes a rejection of the male figure's attempts to dominate or corrupt her. The phrase "slapped him still" suggests that the slap was not only physical but also metaphorically silencing; it halted his aggressive behavior and stopped the flow of his venomous words. The setting "across early morning chill" adds a layer of atmosphere, indicating a time of day often associated with clarity and new beginnings. This setting enhances the impact of the sister's decisive action, as if the morning's freshness contrasts with the darkness of the events.

Overall, this passage captures a moment of conflict and the reclaiming of power within a family dynamic. Sanchez uses powerful metaphors and imagery to convey the emotional and psychological impact of the male figure's actions and the sister's courageous response. The poem reflects on the complexities of memory and the strength required to resist harmful influences, emphasizing themes of resilience and self-assertion in the face of adversity. Through its evocative language and vivid descriptions, the poem explores the profound effects of familial interactions and the ways in which individuals can reclaim their agency and voice.

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