Okay, I have to start by admitting that I thought this poem was going to be a book-length work, so I was really surprised when I discovered that it was really only a few pages long.
That being said, this poem blew me away. I feel like I need to go out and do some research on it, because it’s really dense and complex, and I know I’m missing a large percentage of the references being made. However, I also know that the poem is extremely powerful. It’s got a strong message to deliver about what it means to be Chican@, and what it means to really embrace one’s past and bring it to bear on one’s present.
I feel like anything I say is going to be inadequate. What I will say is that you should read this poem — it’s short, but it’s really powerful. Give it a whirl and let me know what you think.
He he. I think I know you! I was trying to find “I am Joaquín/Yo soy Joaquín” for a class I’m teaching next semester and found your post. Didn’t I meet you at MELUS this past Spring? (If so, we had mimosas the last morning. . .) Great site, regardless!
Hi Wanalee! Yes, we met at MELUS earlier this year. Hope you’re well, and thanks for checking out my blog. 🙂