It's not a traditional poem with a strict structure or rhyme scheme. Instead, it's a collection of free verse poems that tell the story of Woodson's childhood and adolescence, weaving together themes of race, identity, family, and place.
Here's why it's considered a memoir in verse:
* Personal narrative: The poems focus on Woodson's own experiences and memories, much like a traditional memoir.
* Lyrical language: While the poems don't follow a strict rhyme scheme, they use vivid imagery, sensory details, and poetic language to create a strong emotional impact.
* Structure: The poems are organized into chapters that follow a chronological order, telling a cohesive story of Woodson's life.
So, while "Brown Girl Dreaming" is written in verse, it's best categorized as a memoir in verse due to its focus on personal narrative and structure.