Memory: The poem is a meditation on the speaker's childhood memories, specifically the act of making a fist and the emotions associated with it. These memories evoke feelings of both joy and sorrow, highlighting the power of memory to shape our present.
Loss: The poem touches on the theme of loss through the speaker's recollection of her grandfather's death. The image of the fist clutching air symbolizes the loss of physical presence and the enduring ache of grief.
Resilience: Despite the pain of loss, the poem ultimately conveys a message of resilience. The speaker finds solace in the simple act of making a fist, suggesting that even in the face of adversity, there is strength to be found in our memories and our own inner resources.
The poem's use of imagery, symbolism, and personal anecdotes allows the reader to connect with the speaker's emotional journey and reflect on their own experiences with memory, loss, and resilience.