Lucille+Clifton

=Biography= Lucille Clifton, originally Thelma Lucille Sayles, was born June 27, 1936 in Depew New York. She was raised in Buffalo New York and graduated High school at age 16, and then attended Howard University before transferring to Fredonia State Teachers College. She met her husband, Fred Clifton, during this time. They had six children together before Fred died in 1984. Lucille taught at many colleges throughout the east coast, published many poems, and won many awards before her death in 1973.

Major Works
__Good Times Blessing the Boats: New and Selected Poems The Terrible Stories__

__Poetry__
My Mama moved among the days like a dreamwalker in a field; seemed like what she touched was here seemed like what touched her couldn't hold, she got us almost through the high grass then seemed like she turned around and ran right back in right back on in = =
 * "My Mama Moved Among the Days"**

When I read this poem I was in awe of Lucille's mother. She is the theme of the poem and she represents strength and mystery. This poem uses similies and imagery. There is no rhyme scheme.
 * My Response**



when I watch you wrapped up like garbage sitting, surrounded by the smell of too old potato peels or when I watch you in your old man's shoes with the little toe cut out sitting, waiting for your mind like next week's grocery I say when I watch you you wet brown bag of a woman who used to be the best looking gal in Georgia Used to be called the Georgia Rose I stand up through your destruction I stand up
 * "Miss Rosie"**

When I read this poem I was really emotionally affected. The way the ruined woman is described is amazing. She is the epitome of loss. The theme of this poem is how Lucille feels strong, worthy, and accomplished when she sees what this once amazing woman has become and how she has not dropped in such a way. It shows that even if you do not seem to be the best or the most beautiful you may end up that way so don't give up. The poem contains similes and imagery. There is no rhyme scheme.
 * My Response**


 * "Fury"**

//for mama//

remember this. she is standing by the furnace. the coals glisten like rubies. her hand is crying. her hand is clutching a sheaf of papers. poems. she gives them up. they burn jewels into jewels her eyes are animals. each hank of her hair is a serpent's obedient wife. she will never recover. remember. there is nothing you will not bear for this woman's sake.

When I read this poem I instantly liked it. It struck me as powerful, dark, and beautiful. The imagery that she uses in this poem is amazing, she also uses metaphors and personification to bring the events in the poem to life. There is no rhyme scheme. This poem is about Lucille's memory of her mother. Her mother desired to become a poet, but was not allowed by Lucille's father. This poem is one of Lucille's memories. The theme of this poem is that if your dreams are denied it will hurt you and those around you.
 * My Response**