Saeed Al Sharji
Race, Racialization and Narration
Luna Dubois
Analysis of "Spirit Moves"
Readers are led on an exploration into the realm of the ethereal and the occult in "Spirit
Moves." The poem's central message is a potent testament to how humans may sense things
that are not physically there.
The description of a "primal creeping, misty stillness" immediately conjures up the idea of an allpervasive yet invisible force. This mist envelops us in its mystery and is a metaphor for the
spirit's elusiveness. Many people have experienced this feeling before, even when they are
alone themselves: being seen or sensed. The spirit dances, a representation of freedom,
transcendence, and a link to higher powers, as opposed to being detached. This dance's erratic
character is a reflection of spiritual experiences' sometimes illusive nature.
With the interaction of dreams, the poem extends this investigation even more. According to
many civilizations and traditions, dreams serve as a link between the aware and subconscious
and symbolize entrances to other dimensions. When "Spirit Moves" interacts with the dreamer,
it symbolizes a close but ephemeral relationship. There is a sense of longing in this passage
since the ghost appears to be pleading with the narrator to "stay forever."
However, just when the reader starts to feel lost in this ethereal world, the mention of "Egavik"
grounds the story. While the poem's premise is universal, its particular provides a cultural and
geographical context, implying that the poem's beginnings may be based in indigenous
traditions despite having a universal theme. This is further emphasized by the mention of the
"Eskimos" and the "shaman." Shamans, who are seen as intermediaries between the material
and spiritual worlds, emphasize the value of interpretation and comprehension. The poem
affirms the special omnipresence of this spirit by setting Spirit Moves apart from the idea of a
shaman.
Finally, "Spirit Moves" offers an engaging examination of the distinctions between the material
and spiritual worlds. The poem explores the profound, frequently enigmatic interconnections of
the human experience with the immense expanse of the ethereal through its vivid narrative and
complex symbolism.