11-11-2013, 10:32 PM
Hi Chazz, not familiar with the specific issues the poem is raising. I get female genital mutilation and possibly cannibalism from the content.
I think this poem suffers some because it's dealing with a heavy topic, and it is mostly making statements rather than drawing us into either a narrative, or allowing the imagery to do the work. Let me give you an example, that you may have already read, of what I'm talking about (equally tough topic handled by Lucille Clifton). Maybe her poem will illustrate some ideas, and help.
shapeshifter poems
Best,
Todd
I think this poem suffers some because it's dealing with a heavy topic, and it is mostly making statements rather than drawing us into either a narrative, or allowing the imagery to do the work. Let me give you an example, that you may have already read, of what I'm talking about (equally tough topic handled by Lucille Clifton). Maybe her poem will illustrate some ideas, and help.
shapeshifter poems
Best,
Todd
The secret of poetry is cruelty.--Jon Anderson