Poem

Prayer to Masks

New York

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Leopold Sedar Senghor (Senegal)

Pronounce: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PcsQassizvE

https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poets/leopold-sedar-senghor

Senghor, along with Cesaire, inaugurated the Negritude movement in France, celebrating that part of his heritage. Compelling, too, is the fact that he sought reconciliation between his heritage from both Africa and Europe. Think. The Ballad of the Two Grandfathers. I am who I am. Can I cut off part of me?

He is considered central to African literature, was president of Senegal for twenty years, and was a strong voice against the colonial movement. He was brilliantly educated which forces the issue of roots.

I found at least three translations of each poem. We will stay with the one on our class site. This refocuses on the power of selecting tone and word that reflects the author’s intended purpose. And do not forget that words and cultures change. The translator is faced with adjusting to these needs.

Prayer to Masks and New York are a dichotomy to a degree.

Prayer to Masks

The first is pure heritage. Here, the poet petitions his ancestors. The masks represent them. It is ancestor worship. Then he address his “now” people: “let us report present at the birth of the world.”

Poetry does not “work” universally, unless there is a universal message. Consider the strong belief here in the afterlife where those who have preceded us are involved in our current lives and the fact they are allowed to intervene. Note: … we are the men of the dance whose feet only gain power when they beat the hard soil.” Here he defines his people and calls them to action.

Reading: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JS-Yx-HoCwQ

New York

This is loud. This is rude. This is garish. It is West. How does an African with African sensibilities adjust to such?

There are long-legged golden girls, disquiet, sulphur, insomniac nights. Then Harlem comes with its native attributions, skillfully altered and altering this new culture. It is an infusion of energy, seeing, being. loving. LIFE.

Notice the first focus on Manhattan and the second on Harlem. Why?

Notice a reference to the deity: “It is the pure hour when God sets the life before the memory germinating in the streets.” Notice the placement. Why?

The author addresses the city. What is that called? How does this work?

The following are contributors to the Negritude movement. They are noted here in the event that you wish to prepare your Special Project on the topic.