BELARUSIAN I
The Poem
even our mothers have no idea how we were born
how we parted their legs and crawled out into the world
the way you crawl from the ruins after a bombing
we couldn’t tell which of us was a girl or a boy
we gorged on dirt thinking it was bread
and our future
a gymnast on a thin thread of the horizon
was performing there
at the highest pitch
bitch
we grew up in a country where
first your door is stroked with chalk
then at dark a chariot arrives
and no one sees you anymore
but riding in those cars were neither
armed men nor
a wanderer with a scythe
this is how love loved to visit us
and snatch us veiled
completely free only in public toilets
where for a little change nobody cared what we were doing
we fought the summer heat the winter snow
when we discovered we ourselves were the language
and our tongues were removed we started talking with our eyes
when our eyes were poked out we talked with our hands
when our hands were cut off we conversed with our toes
when we were shot in the legs we nodded our head for yes
and shook our heads for no and when they ate our heads alive
we crawled back into the bellies of our sleeping mothers
as if into bomb shelters
to be born again
and there on the horizon the gymnast of our future
was leaping through the fiery hoop
of the sun
© Translation: 2008, Valzhyna Mort, Franz Wright and Elizabeth Oehlkers Wright
From: Factory of Tears
Publisher: Copper Canyon Press, , 2008
1. Introduction
Introduction to Valzhyna Mort:
Valzhyna Mort is a contemporary Belarusian-American poet born in Minsk, Belarus, in
1981. Her poetry is characterized by its intense imagery, emotional depth, and
exploration of personal and collective experiences in the context of political and social
upheaval.
Poem's Origin and Publication:
The poem "BELARUSIAN I" is part of Mort's collection titled "Factory of Tears,"
published in 2008 by Copper Canyon Press. This collection delves into Mort's
experiences growing up in Belarus, offering a poignant reflection on identity, survival,
and the impact of historical and political events on individuals.
Significance of Examining Poetry from Diverse Cultural Perspectives:
Studying poetry from diverse cultural perspectives, such as Mort's Belarusian
background, enriches our understanding of the human experience. It allows us to
explore unique narratives, histories, and emotions that might be overlooked in a more
homogenous literary curriculum. Poetry becomes a lens through which we gain insights
into different cultures, fostering empathy, broadening perspectives, and promoting a
more inclusive appreciation of the world's literary heritage.
2. Overview of the Poem
Structure of the Poem:
"BELARUSIAN I" is written in free verse, meaning it lacks a traditional rhyme scheme
and meter. This form gives Mort the freedom to express herself without the constraints
of a predetermined structure. The lack of a strict form enhances the raw and unfiltered
nature of the poem, allowing the poet to capture the intensity of personal and collective
experiences.
Title: "BELARUSIAN I" and Its Implications:
The title, "BELARUSIAN I," suggests a strong connection between the poet's identity
and her Belarusian heritage. The use of the first person ("I") emphasizes the personal
and introspective nature of the poem. It signals that the narrative is deeply rooted in
Mort's individual experiences as a Belarusian, inviting readers to explore a specific
cultural and historical perspective. The title not only highlights the poet's identity but also
sets the stage for an exploration of the broader collective identity of the Belarusian
people.
Summary of the Narrative:
The poem vividly describes the harsh realities of growing up in Belarus during a
tumultuous time. It portrays a childhood marked by confusion, hardship, and survival.
The speaker reflects on a collective experience of a generation that faced challenges,
including political turmoil and societal disarray. The narrative touches on themes of
identity, resilience, and the ways individuals adapt to adverse circumstances.
Throughout the poem, Mort uses powerful imagery to convey the struggles and
endurance of a community shaped by historical events and personal ordeals.
3. Themes (15 mins)
Identity and Self-Discovery:
Valzhyna Mort explores the theme of identity and self-discovery by delving into the
speaker's experiences growing up in Belarus. The use of the first person in the title,
"BELARUSIAN I," signals a journey of self-exploration within the context of a specific
cultural identity. Throughout the poem, Mort reflects on the challenges of understanding
oneself in a complex and tumultuous environment, where personal identity is intertwined
with the collective history of the Belarusian people.
Impact of Political and Social Turmoil:
The poem vividly captures the impact of political and social turmoil on personal
experience. Descriptions of crawling from ruins, the presence of chariots, and the
disappearance of individuals at night suggest the pervasive influence of political
upheaval. The chariot arriving in darkness symbolizes an ominous force, and the
speaker's experiences reflect the disruptive effects of political unrest on everyday life.
Mort paints a stark picture of a community marked by the intrusion of external forces
that alter the course of individual lives.
Resilience and Survival:
Resilience and survival in the face of adversity are central themes in the poem. The
speaker recounts moments of hardship, from gorging on dirt in a metaphorical hunger
for sustenance and future, to adapting communication methods as external forces
attempt to silence voices. The progression from crawling to nodding and shaking heads
to crawling back into the bellies of sleeping mothers illustrates a relentless
determination to endure, adapt, and survive despite the challenges imposed by external
circumstances.
4. Imagery and Symbolism
Crawling from Ruins:
The imagery of "crawling from ruins" is a potent symbol representing emergence and
survival in the aftermath of destruction. This visual metaphor suggests a profound
struggle for existence, echoing the historical and political turmoil faced by Belarus. The
ruins may symbolize the impact of wars, political upheavals, or societal breakdowns.
The act of crawling implies both the difficulty and determination of individuals to
navigate and transcend the challenges posed by their tumultuous past. In the context of
the poem, this image encapsulates the collective resilience of a people rising from the
devastation of their history, emphasizing the indomitable spirit to rebuild and move
forward.
Eating Dirt as a Metaphor for Hardship:
The metaphor of "gorging on dirt thinking it was bread" creates a visceral image of
deprivation and hardship. This metaphorical act of consuming dirt serves as a poignant
commentary on the struggles for sustenance and the difficulty in distinguishing between
sustenance and adversity. It becomes a metaphor for the challenges faced by the
speaker and the community in navigating a world where basic needs, represented by
"bread," are elusive or distorted. This image underscores the harsh realities of survival
and the resilience required to endure in the face of scarcity.
The Gymnast on the Horizon:
The gymnast on the horizon is a rich and symbolic image representing the uncertain
future and the delicate balance required to navigate it. The gymnast, a figure associated
with agility and precision, becomes a metaphor for the resilience needed to perform
amidst chaos. Placed on the horizon, the gymnast also embodies a distant and
challenging vision of the future. The fiery hoop of the sun intensifies this symbol,
suggesting that the path forward is not only precarious but also illuminated by the harsh
realities of their present. This image encapsulates the theme of identity and the
challenges faced by the Belarusian people as they strive for balance, adaptability, and
endurance in the face of an unpredictable future.
Significance of Symbols in Context:
These symbols collectively contribute to the poem's exploration of identity, survival, and
the impact of historical and political events on individuals and communities in Belarus.
They convey a narrative of struggle, resilience, and adaptation, inviting readers to
reflect on the complexities of navigating a world shaped by hardship and upheaval. The
vivid imagery, laden with symbolic meaning, enhances the emotional impact of the
poem, fostering a deeper connection between the reader and the experiences depicted
by Valzhyna Mort.
Cultural Context
● Provide background information on Belarus, considering its history and
socio-political context.
● Discuss how Mort's personal experiences and the collective history of
Belarus influence the poem.
Background on Belarus:
Belarus, situated in Eastern Europe, has a complex history marked by influences from
neighboring powers. It was part of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, later falling under
Polish and Russian rule. Throughout the 20th century, Belarus faced the challenges of
World War I, the Russian Revolution, and Sovietization. During World War II, it endured
significant devastation, and post-war Belarus became one of the Soviet Socialist
Republics. The Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986 further impacted the region. In 1991,
Belarus gained independence with the dissolution of the Soviet Union, but it faced
socio-political challenges, including authoritarian governance.
Influence on the Poem:
Valzhyna Mort's personal experiences growing up in Belarus, combined with the
collective history of the nation, deeply influence "BELARUSIAN I." The poem serves as
a reflection on the socio-political climate and the impact of historical events on the
individual and collective psyche of the Belarusian people.
Political Turmoil and Disruption: References to chariots arriving in darkness and the
disappearance of individuals at night allude to the political turmoil and oppressive
regimes that have marked Belarusian history. Mort's experiences align with a generation
that witnessed political and societal disruption, influencing the struggles depicted in the
poem.
Resilience Amidst Adversity: Belarus's history of enduring wars, Soviet rule, and political
challenges is mirrored in the theme of resilience and survival in Mort's poem. The
struggles described in the poem can be seen as a metaphor for the collective
endurance of the Belarusian people, overcoming hardships while attempting to preserve
their identity.
Cultural Identity: The title "BELARUSIAN I" emphasizes the poet's connection to her
cultural identity. Mort delves into the challenges of identity and self-discovery within the
context of a nation with a rich but often tumultuous history. The poem becomes a
vehicle for Mort to explore her own cultural heritage and the impact of this heritage on
her sense of self.
Post-Soviet Experience: The poem, written in the post-Soviet era, reflects on the
aftermath of Soviet influence. The gymnast on the horizon may symbolize a vision of the
future, navigating the complexities of a post-Soviet Belarus, hinting at the struggle for a
new identity in the aftermath of political and social changes.
In essence, Mort's "BELARUSIAN I" intertwines personal and collective experiences,
using poetry as a medium to articulate the profound impact of history, politics, and
identity on the lives of individuals in Belarus. The poem acts as both a personal
narrative and a broader commentary on the resilience and challenges faced by a nation.
Literary Devices
Metaphor:
Metaphor is a prominent literary device in "BELARUSIAN I," enriching the poem's
meaning and emotional impact. The gymnast on the horizon serves as a metaphor for
the uncertain future faced by the speaker and the Belarusian people. This image
conveys a sense of precarious balance, suggesting that the challenges ahead require
agility and resilience, much like a gymnast navigating a thin thread. The fiery hoop of
the sun adds another layer, symbolizing both the harshness of their reality and the
potential for transformation through endurance.
Simile:
While similes, direct comparisons using "like" or "as," are not as prevalent, the poem
does contain implicit comparisons. Phrases like "the way you crawl from the ruins after
a bombing" create vivid mental images, likening the act of emerging from devastation to
a struggle for survival. This simile enhances the reader's understanding of the difficulty
and desperation experienced by the speaker and the community.
Repetition:
Repetition is skillfully employed to underscore key themes and emphasize the relentless
nature of the struggles described. The repetition of "we" in phrases like "we couldn't tell
which of us was a girl or a boy" and "we grew up in a country where" serves to create a
collective identity, emphasizing shared experiences within the community. Repetition of
the pronoun "our" in "our mothers," "our future," and "the gymnast of our future"
reinforces the communal bond and shared destiny of the people.
Mort's adept use of metaphor, simile, and repetition in "BELARUSIAN I" enhances the
poem's impact by creating a rich tapestry of images, fostering emotional engagement,
and reinforcing key themes. These literary devices contribute to the effectiveness of the
poem in conveying the complexities of personal and collective struggles within the
context of Belarusian history and culture.
8. Connection to Contemporary Issues
Resonance with Contemporary Social and Political Issues:
Identity and Oppression:
The theme of identity and the struggle against oppression in "BELARUSIAN I"
resonates with contemporary social and political issues worldwide. Many societies
grapple with questions of individual and collective identity, especially in the face of
political regimes that may seek to suppress or control certain identities. Students can
draw parallels between the speaker's quest for identity in the poem and current
movements advocating for individual rights and cultural recognition.
Political Turmoil and Authoritarianism:
The portrayal of political turmoil and authoritarian control in the poem mirrors ongoing
global concerns. Instances of political unrest, censorship, and challenges to democratic
principles are prevalent in various regions. Students can explore parallels between the
chariots arriving in darkness in the poem and contemporary situations where political
forces attempt to silence dissent and control the narrative.
Resilience in Adversity:
The theme of resilience and survival amid adversity is universal and relevant to current
events. In an era marked by global challenges such as pandemics, climate crises, and
political upheaval, the poem's exploration of how individuals and communities endure
and adapt can prompt discussions on the resilience exhibited by people in the face of
contemporary challenges.
Struggles for Freedom and Expression:
The poem's depiction of struggling for freedom of expression, notably in lines about
being completely free only in public toilets, reflects the challenges faced by individuals
advocating for freedom and human rights today. Students can explore how various
groups navigate restrictions on expression and the lengths to which they go to
communicate and assert their voices.
Encouraging Parallels with Current Events:
Encourage students to draw connections between the themes of the poem and
contemporary events by:
Identifying instances in the news or historical events that echo the struggles depicted in
the poem.
Analyzing how individuals or communities assert their identity and resilience in the face
of adversity today.
Reflecting on the role of political and social movements in shaping identity and
challenging oppressive systems.
By drawing parallels, students can gain a deeper understanding of the enduring
relevance of the poem's themes and engage in meaningful discussions about the
intersections between literature, history, and contemporary society. This approach
fosters critical thinking and encourages students to see poetry as a lens through which
they can explore and comprehend the complexities of the world around them.
here's a line-by-line explanation of the poem:
1. "even our mothers have no idea how we were born"
- This line suggests a sense of mystery or confusion surrounding the circumstances of birth,
emphasizing the difficulty and complexity of life.
2. "how we parted their legs and crawled out into the world"
- The imagery here describes the act of being born, emphasizing the struggle and effort
involved in entering the world.
3. "the way you crawl from the ruins after a bombing"
- This simile compares the process of being born to crawling out of ruins after a destructive
event, creating a vivid image of difficulty and chaos.
4. "we couldn’t tell which of us was a girl or a boy"
- The confusion about gender at birth is highlighted, suggesting a lack of clarity or identity in
the early stages of life.
5. "we gorged on dirt thinking it was bread and our future"
- Metaphorically, this line implies that the individuals consumed something of little value,
mistaking it for sustenance and a promising future.
6. "a gymnast on a thin thread of the horizon was performing there"
- This metaphor suggests the precariousness of hope or a better future, represented by a
gymnast on a thin horizon, performing at a challenging height.
7. "at the highest pitch bitch"
- The word "bitch" here may be used as a strong, possibly derogatory expression,
emphasizing the intensity or difficulty of the situation.
8. "we grew up in a country where first your door is stroked with chalk"
- This line implies a form of markin
g or targeting, possibly hinting at oppression or surveillance in the country.
9. "then at dark a chariot arrives and no one sees you anymore"
- The arrival of a chariot in darkness suggests a mysterious and possibly ominous event
where individuals disappear without notice.
10. "but riding in those cars were neither armed men nor a wanderer with a scythe"
- The cars mentioned here do not carry the expected symbols of violence or death, creating a
sense of uncertainty or unpredictability.
11. "this is how love loved to visit us and snatch us veiled"
- Love is portrayed as a force that arrives unexpectedly, possibly leading to hidden or
concealed consequences.
12. "completely free only in public toilets where for a little change nobody cared what we were
doing"
- The only place of relative freedom mentioned is public toilets, emphasizing the lack of
privacy and societal indifference to personal actions.
13. "we fought the summer heat the winter snow"
- This line signifies a continuous struggle against adverse weather conditions, representing
life's challenges.
14. "when we discovered we ourselves were the language"
- The realization that language and communication stem from the individuals themselves is
highlighted, suggesting a self-sufficient means of expression.
15. "and our tongues were removed we started talking with our eyes"
- Metaphorically, losing the ability to speak doesn't silence them; instead, they find alternative
ways to communicate, such as through their eyes.
16. "when our eyes were poked out we talked with our hands"
- Even when faced with extreme adversity, the individuals adapt by using different forms of
non-verbal communication.
17. "when our hands were cut off we conversed with our toes"
- The adaptation continues, as individuals find ways to communicate even when traditional
means are taken away.
18. "when we were shot in the legs we nodded our head for yes and shook our heads for no"
- Despite physical harm, the determination to communicate persists through gestures,
demonstrating resilience.
19. "and when they ate our heads alive we crawled back into the bellies of our sleeping
mothers"
- This metaphorical resurrection implies a cycle of rebirth or renewal, seeking refuge and
protection in the maternal womb amid extreme danger.
20. "as if into bomb shelters to be born again"
- The final lines reinforce the theme of rebirth, likening the return to maternal shelter to
seeking refuge in a bomb shelter amid danger.
21. "and there on the horizon the gymnast of our future was leaping through the fiery hoop"
- The poem concludes with a symbolic image of hope, as the gymnast represents the future
overcoming challenges, leaping through a fiery hoop.