Coal By Audre Lorde - Giggle Poems

Original Poem：

I
Is the total black, being spoken
From the earth's inside.
There are many kinds of open.
How a diamond comes into a knot of flame
How a sound comes into a word, coloured
By who pays what for speaking.
Some words are open
Like a diamond on glass windows
Singing out within the crash of passing sun
Then there are words like stapled wagers
In a perforated book—buy and sign and tear apart—
And come whatever wills all chances
The stub remains
An ill-pulled tooth with a ragged edge.
Some words live in my throat
Breeding like adders. Others know sun
Seeking like gypsies over my tongue
To explode through my lips
Like young sparrows bursting from shell.
Some words
Bedevil me.
Love is a word another kind of open—
As a diamond comes into a knot of flame
I am black because I come from the earth's inside
Take my word for jewel in your open light.

Poem Interpretation and Analysis

This poem explores the power and complexity of words, comparing them to natural and precious elements such as diamonds, flames, and young sparrows. The speaker reflects on how words originate from deep within, like "the earth's inside," symbolizing something raw and profound. The poem suggests that words are not all the same; some are bright and clear, like diamonds shining on glass windows, while others are fragile or painful, like "an ill-pulled tooth with a ragged edge."

The poet also personifies words as living entities: some "breed like adders" in the throat, implying poisonous or difficult words, while others "seek like gypsies" to burst out freely and joyfully, like sparrows hatching from eggs. The theme of openness recurs throughout, emphasizing how words can open up meaning, emotion, and connection, especially with the metaphor of love as "another kind of open."

The final lines emphasize identity and origin: the speaker is "black because I come from the earth's inside," suggesting a deep, elemental connection to the source of words and life itself. The invitation to "take my word for jewel in your open light" encourages readers to value the truth and beauty found in language.

Background and Author Introduction

This poem is a reflective piece that likely comes from a contemporary poet interested in the philosophy of language and identity. The imagery of earth, diamonds, and living creatures suggests a connection to nature and the human experience of communication. Although the author is not named here, the style aligns with poets who explore existential themes and the power of speech, such as Adrienne Rich or Audre Lorde.

The poem’s creation may have been inspired by the poet’s contemplation of how words shape reality and identity, especially in contexts where language carries social and cultural weight. The metaphor of "who pays what for speaking" hints at the politics of language—how power influences whose voices are heard and valued.

Reflection and Personal Response

Reading this poem invites deep reflection on the importance of words in our lives. It reminds us that language is not just a tool for communication but a living force that can heal, hurt, empower, or constrain. The vivid metaphors make the abstract concept of language tangible and emotional.

The poem also encourages us to consider our own relationship with words: which words do we hold close, which do we fear, and which do we let fly freely? The image of love as a diamond in flame is particularly striking, suggesting that openness in relationships requires courage and brilliance.

Learning Points for Children and Students

This poem offers several valuable lessons for young learners:

• Vocabulary and Imagery: Students can learn how poets use vivid images (diamonds, flames, sparrows) to express abstract ideas like feelings and communication.
• Figurative Language: The poem is rich in metaphors and similes, providing examples of how language can be creative and expressive.
• Themes of Identity and Expression: It encourages thinking about how our words reflect who we are and where we come from.
• Emotional Awareness: The poem shows that words can carry different emotions—some painful, some joyful—which helps students understand the power of language in expressing feelings.

Practical Applications and Inspirations

• In Writing: Students can practice writing their own poems using metaphors to describe emotions or ideas.
• In Speaking: Understanding that words have power can inspire careful and thoughtful communication.
• In Social Studies: The poem’s hint at social dynamics of language can lead to discussions about cultural identity and the value of diverse voices.
• In Emotional Learning: Recognizing how words affect feelings can improve empathy and interpersonal skills.

Reading Comprehension Questions

1. What does the poem compare words to?
2. How does the poet describe the different kinds of words?
3. What does the phrase "I am black because I come from the earth's inside" suggest about the speaker?
4. Why might some words be described as "breeding like adders"?
5. What does the poem say about the word "love"?
6. How does the poem make you feel about the power of language?

Answers

1. The poem compares words to diamonds, flames, sparrows, and even teeth.
2. Some words are open and bright like diamonds, while others are painful or difficult like an ill-pulled tooth.
3. It suggests the speaker’s deep connection to the earth and possibly to their own identity or origin.
4. Because some words can be poisonous, harmful, or difficult to express.
5. Love is described as another kind of open, bright and powerful like a diamond in flame.
6. Answers will vary but may include feelings of awe, respect, or reflection on how important words are.

This poem offers a rich opportunity for students to explore language, emotion, and identity, making it a valuable resource for both literary study and personal growth.