For Paul Robeson
by Paul Anderson
With the yowl of oppression, I hear your cry.
I was born with your name, I ll die with your sigh
as "Old Man River " carries the sway.
On our march for Freedom on Glasgow's May day
There is no country you have'nt been heard,
with "Joe Hill" resounding each beautiful word
Sang with such passion, sang with such strength
exacting each note, and finding its length
You stood up to Mcarthy by taking the fifth
Your Canadian border concert has passed into myth
35,000 came for your Voice.
The ban on your travel gave them no choice
From the howls of injustice, the kicks of torture.
You brought an elegant grace to the worker's furore.
From sweet melodies to the summertime blues.
The soul of music that Man cannot lose.
AI analysis
This is a powerful and moving tribute poem. Here is an analysis of its themes, structure, and the historical context it references.
Analysis of "For Paul Robeson" by Paul Anderson
This poem is a passionate homage to the legendary African-American singer, actor, and civil rights activist Paul Robeson (1898-1976). The poet, sharing Robeson's first name, creates a deep sense of personal connection and legacy.
Themes:
- Legacy and Identification: The poem opens and closes with a powerful identification between the speaker and Robeson. The lines "I was born with your name, I'll die with your sigh" and "I am Paul, you are Paul" suggest that Robeson's spirit and struggle live on in those who continue to fight for justice.
- Art as a Weapon: The poem consistently highlights how Robeson used his magnificent voice and art not merely for entertainment but as a tool for liberation, solidarity, and political protest.
- Resistance and Defiance: It celebrates Robeson's courageous stance against oppression, specifically mentioning his defiance of McCarthyism and his international appeal that transcended government attempts to silence him.
- Global Solidarity: Robeson's message is shown to be universal, connecting with workers in Scotland ("Glasgow's May day") and fans in Canada, emphasizing that the fight for freedom knows no borders.
Structure and Style:
- Free Verse: The poem is written in free verse, without a strict rhyme scheme or meter. This gives it a natural, conversational, and earnest tone, fitting for a personal tribute.
- Imagery: Anderson uses strong, contrasting imagery: the "yowl of oppression" vs. Robeson's "cry"; the "howls of injustice" vs. his "elegant grace." This highlights the transformative power of Robeson's presence and art.
- Anaphora: The repetition of "Sang with such..." emphasizes the immense power and intention behind Robeson's performances.
Historical & Cultural References:
The poem is dense with allusions to key moments in Robeson's life and career:
- "Old Man River": Robeson's definitive performance of this song from Show Boat. Over time, he changed the lyrics from a passive acceptance of suffering ("I'm tired of livin' and scared of dyin'") to a more defiant tone ("I must keep fightin' until I'm dyin'"), which the poem references with "carries the sway."
- "Joe Hill": A famous song about the executed labor organizer, which became an anthem for the labor movement. Robeson's performance of it is legendary.
- "Taking the fifth" before McCarthy: In 1956, Robeson was summoned before the House Un-American Activities Committee (HUAC). He defiantly invoked the Fifth Amendment against self-incrimination and lecture
"Please comment "
