Poetry is a language translated by the reader. Discernable sentiments and messages rise to the top as you may consider and reconsider the more obscure or hidden meanings surrounding the words on the page. You have the opportunity in this weeks Discussion to deconstruct the complexity of Shanges work through the exploration of a character from her poem while exploring qualities and styles of poetry.
To prepare for this Discussion:
Read and listen to each of the Shange poems linked in this weeks Learning Resources. Listen carefully to the voices and words of the different characters. Choose one of the female characters from the five included poems. For these poems, the characters include: Lady in Yellow, Lady in Orange, Lady in Blue, Lady in Red, and Lady in Purple.
What aspects of the character you chose are readily apparent? What are you most curious about regarding this character that is not directly apparent?
Consider references to formal and/or non-formal education that you identify in association with the character you chose and/or other characters in these five poems? For example, how does Shange communicate a characters sense of knowledge of herself or an issue? In what ways do the women educate one another?
Review examples of poetry from this course to get a sense of the range of styles of poetry. For example, consider the style of Rita Doves poem from Week 4 and review a sample of poems from websites provided in this weeks Optional Resources.
With these thoughts in mind:
By Day 3
Post a 2- to 3-paragraph description of the character you selected from Shanges poem, including her emotional and physical self. Explain how this character represents the concepts of expression, perspective, and social change. How is the style of poetry in Shanges work different from other styles of poetry?
