Poems-Checking Out Me History Flashcards
“Dem tell me…dem tell me wha dem want to tell me”
Loaded word and repetition.
The use of the noun “dem” has undertones of disrespect and creates a distance between the speakers and the writers of white history he condemns.
Repetition of “dem” throughout builds up and creates an angry tone, conveying the speaker’s negative feelings towards those with the authority to present a one-sided view of history.
“Bandage up me eye with me own history…”
“Bandage up me eye with me own history / Blind me to me own identity”.
Metaphor.
This is a metaphor for him not being able to learn about or celebrate his history.
The verbs “bandage” and “blind” have connotations of violence and restriction. They convey the pain caused by being cut off from his history.
Alliteration.
Alliteration of the harsh “b” sound reinforces the idea that the speaker feels this is unpleasant.
“…Of mountain dream / fire woman struggle…”
“…of mountain dream / fire woman struggle / hopeful stream / to freedom river”.
Natural imagery.
Natural imagery used to describe Nanny de Maroon conveys his deep respect for her.
“…A healing star / among the wounded / a yellow sunrise”
Imagery.
Mary Seacole is associated with images of life and hope.
“But now I checking out me own history…”
“But now I checking out me own history / I carving out me identity”.
Loaded verb.
The loaded (has an underlying meaning or implication) verb “carving” has hints of rebellion and shows the need to fight to discover his identity and share it with others.
“Identity” is the final word in the poem as if to emphasise its significance.
Comparisons-Misuse of power/anger at those in power
London
Comparisons-Negative feelings
War Photographer.
My Last Duchess.
London.
Exposure.
Power of identity
The Emigree.
Kamikaze.
