Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Patriotics" is a poem by David Baker, first published in his 1991 collection "The Truth About Small Towns." The poem explores the theme of patriotism and the complexity of national identity.

Explanation:

The poem describes a scene in which the speaker observes a group of people celebrating the Fourth of July. The speaker reflects on the complicated nature of patriotism, noting the contrast between the celebratory atmosphere and the underlying conflicts and contradictions of American history. The poem conveys a sense of ambivalence about patriotism and a recognition of the complexity of national identity.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme scheme or meter. The lines are of varying length and follow a loose structure.
• Theme: The poem explores the theme of patriotism and the complexity of national identity.
• Imagery: The poem uses vivid imagery, such as the description of the "thunderous sky" and the "snakes and sparklers" of the fireworks. These images convey a sense of celebration and conflict.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is ambivalent, as the speaker reflects on the complexity of patriotism and the contradictions of American history.
• Sound: The poem makes use of repetition, with the phrase "we say" appearing several times throughout the poem. The use of alliteration and assonance creates a sense of musicality and movement.
• Language: The language of the poem is straightforward and accessible, with a focus on concrete details.
• Figurative language: The poem uses metaphor, with the fireworks serving as a metaphor for the conflicting emotions and contradictions of patriotism.
• Structure: The poem is divided into two stanzas of varying length.
• Symbolism: The fireworks and the celebration of the Fourth of July serve as symbolic representations of the complexity and contradictions of patriotism and national identity.
• Emotion: The poem conveys a sense of ambivalence and recognition of the complexity of patriotism and national identity.

Conclusion:

"Patriotics" is a nuanced exploration of the complexity and contradictions of patriotism and national identity. Through the use of vivid imagery and metaphor, David Baker captures the conflicting emotions and complex history of the United States.

Snippet:

"We say we are Americans, but that's not enough.

We say it is our birthday, and it is,

but it's not a simple date we celebrate,

not just an honoring of what we were born into."