Key Poetic Devices in "Choices":
* Repetition: Giovanni uses repetition to emphasize key ideas and create a powerful rhythm. The most prominent example is the repeated phrase "We are a people" throughout the poem. This emphasizes the shared experiences and collective identity of African Americans.
* Imagery: She crafts vivid images to evoke emotional responses:
* "We have walked through the fire, and we have come out gold." (Evokes resilience and transformation)
* "We have sung our songs into the night, and the morning has come." (Symbolizes hope and perseverance)
* Metaphor: Giovanni uses metaphors to create powerful comparisons:
* "We are a people who have been to the mountaintop and seen the promised land." (Refers to the struggle for freedom and the hope for a better future)
* Symbolism: The poem is rich in symbolism:
* "The fire" can symbolize oppression, hardship, and the struggle for survival.
* "The morning" represents hope, a new dawn, and the possibility of a better future.
Other Devices:
* Alliteration: While not as prominent as other devices, alliteration is used for effect in lines like "We have walked through the fire, and we have come out gold." (The repetition of the "w" sound creates a sense of emphasis)
* Assonance: Giovanni uses assonance, the repetition of vowel sounds, to create a musical effect, especially in lines like "We are a people who have been to the mountaintop and seen the promised land." (The repetition of the long "a" sound creates a sense of grandeur)
Less Prominent Devices:
* Meter: While "Choices" has a rhythmic flow, it doesn't adhere to a specific meter.
* Rhyme Scheme: The poem doesn't utilize a traditional rhyme scheme.
* Similes: While metaphors are present, "Choices" doesn't contain many explicit similes (using "like" or "as" to compare).
Analyzing "Choices":
By understanding these literary devices, you can delve deeper into the poem's message and appreciate the artistry of Giovanni's language. Consider how these devices:
* Emphasize the historical struggles and resilience of African Americans.
* Convey a sense of shared identity and collective strength.
* Express hope for a future filled with progress and liberation.
Let me know if you'd like to explore any of these devices further or discuss other poems by Nikki Giovanni!