Imagery and metaphors

In this section of the study guide, we will help you analyze the poem for imagery, symbols, and motifs.

Visual images and metaphors

Since the poem is mostly descriptive, the text abounds in sensory imagery, especially visual images. These images are created through the use of similes and comparisons such as: “Just like it used to be in my neighborhood” (l. 44), “like mechanics wear” (l. 5) and “used common sense like scholars” (l.13)

Metaphors further stir the imagination of readers, by creating unusual images like “dictators in our neighborhoods” (l. 34)

Symbols and motifs

Symbols and motifs are very important elements in the poem, as they also function as extended metaphors.

The prison

First of all, pay attention to the motif of the prison. The immigrants in a new country ...