Form:
* Free Verse: The poem is written in free verse, meaning it doesn't adhere to a strict rhyme scheme or meter. This allows for a more natural and conversational flow, reflecting the complex and fragmented nature of the subject matter.
* Stanza Structure: The poem is divided into sections or stanzas of varying length. The shifting stanza lengths, like the shifts in focus and perspective, contribute to the poem's overall sense of disarray and disorientation.
Structure:
* Chronological and Non-Chronological: The poem moves back and forth in time, transitioning between past and present, and reflecting the cyclical nature of history and trauma.
* Multiple Perspectives: The poem presents multiple perspectives on the Cambodian genocide, including the voice of the speaker, the voices of those who experienced the atrocities, and the voice of history itself.
* Juxtaposition and Contrast: Fenton employs a number of juxtapositions throughout the poem, such as contrasting the beauty of the Cambodian landscape with the brutality of the regime, or the innocence of childhood with the horrors of war. These contrasts heighten the emotional impact of the poem.
* Imagery: The poem is rich in vivid imagery, which helps to create a strong sense of place and time. The images are often graphic and disturbing, reflecting the nature of the events being described.
* Symbolism: The poem uses symbols to convey deeper meaning, such as the image of the "killing fields," which represents the destruction and loss of innocence, or the "silk river," which symbolizes the beauty and resilience of the Cambodian people.
Overall Effect:
The combination of these structural elements creates a powerful and unsettling poem that compels the reader to confront the complexities of the Cambodian genocide. The lack of a traditional structure reflects the chaotic and brutal nature of the events, while the shifting perspectives and powerful imagery create a lasting impression on the reader.