Clay by Marilyn Nelson

Afro-Americans rebuilding after the Emancipation are the catalyst to describe rebirth of civilization and maturity. Free Afro-Americans lost land, rights and independence after slave codes were enforced in Missouri, 1804. This poem focuses on greater systems of oppression similar to a country rebuilding after war. Similar to the principles of reincarnation a person loses possessions when they die. Their spirit remembers, yet they must work to regain everything they have lost. This is important when establishing metaphors in the poem. It reflects on freemen organizing to struggle against a sovereign government, not people complying with the only life they ever knew.

The use of elements on the periodical table inspires a duel message of man being made from dirt and Carver being a man of science. The emphasis, "primarily iron," encourages a message of determination. People with strength are made of iron. Fortitude is the greater description for all Freed Slaves.

God's breath on a compound of silica, alumina, and various oxides -
primarily iron - gave Adam life.

Clay is symbolism with applications to all humanity. Clay is represented by bricks and mortar harnessed through various processes. The dirt along the river beds has as much potential as the stones in, "cathedral walls."

With the metaphor of cathedrals, Nelson extends symbolism to include wooden boards. The image of new cabins being built is reminiscent of homesteads. Quickly the Missouri Blacks understood the importance of acquiring land and rebuilding home to secure their future against a nation that would as quickly vote away rights on tiny pieces of paper.

In the last line, "Beauty is commonplace, as cheap as dirt," reveals an uncertain amount of hostility, yet the poem focuses on accomplishments. Determent is a secondary plot-line.

Professor Carver might not relate to slavery in the South. This poem makes several assumptions about Carver's upbringing. Biological Family, Neighbors and Organizers to end slavery might be a source of encouragement, not always his White Parents. While understanding the importance of the Emancipation he is an icon for overcoming great obstacles though his responsibility in rebuilding Afro-American culture has overemphasis, yet we often live our lives thinking of future generations.

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Carver by Marilyn Nelson