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Classic and Contemporary Poetry


KINSHIP by JAMES HARRISON

Poet Analysis

First Line: GREAT-UNCLE WILHELM, MENNONITE, PATRIARCH
Last Line: CURSE THEM BUT DON'T DIE.
Subject(s): AGING; FAMILY LIFE; FOOD & EATING; UNCLES; RELATIVES;

Great-uncle Wilhelm, Mennonite, patriarch,
eater of blood sausage, leeks,
headcheese, salt pork,
you are led into church
by that wisp you plundered for nine children.
Your brain has sugared now,
your white beard is limp,
you talk of acres of corn
where there is only snow.
Your sister, a witch, old as a stump,
says you are punished now for the unspeakable
sin that barred you from the table for seven years.
They feed you cake to hasten your death.
Your land is divided.
Curse them but don't die.



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