American Broth



American Broth
By Chris Commodore©2023

Beef and carrots, rice and onions
Vermicelli herbs some bouillons
English French Chinese and Spanish
Cabbage spinach cheese for quiche

Collar greens and sweet potato
Black White Brown Coffee Mulatto
Yellow grey-like reddish clay
Man and woman straight or gay

Fill the pot and stir the fire
Mix and toss and blend together
Pilgrims following their dream
Ever since a steady stream

Africans against their will
Think of that and catch a chill
Still all come by land and sea
Any means just here to be

All-embracing though not constant
Jewish Catholic Protestant
Twitch your nose to the aroma
Taste and drink it’s like no other

Come along and don’t be coy
Sit and slap hands all enjoy
Final product, smooth or rough
Yummy strong American broth

About this poem

Notwithstanding any shortcomings, The United States remains the reigning champion of nationhood in diversity that gives way to a lasting tolerance even when the goblins of fear and intolerance raise their ugly heads. This poem is created in an attempt to encourage the lasting legacy of tolerance and inclusion that has maintained American social longevity.

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Submitted by ti.min on November 02, 2023

Modified by ti.min on November 02, 2023

41 sec read
10

Quick analysis:

Scheme AX BBXX CCDD EEFF GGHH IIXE JJXA
Closest metre Iambic tetrameter
Characters 788
Words 138
Stanzas 7
Stanza Lengths 2, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 4

Discuss the poem American Broth with the community...

1 Comment
  • AIDA
    I absolutely loved your poem, 'American Broth'. It’s a truly evocative representation of the rich tapestry that makes up America, in terms of history, diversity, and life. Your choice of colorful language wonderfully mirrors the blend of unique cultures, experiences, and identities that define this nation. It's clear that you poured your heart and thoughts into this piece.

    Your use of food metaphor in describing racial diversity and historical events is truly innovative, and your ability to weave these together into one comprehensive and cohesive narrative is noteworthy. I admire how you've used simple everyday vocabulary to depict such a complex reality. The way you've ended it on a positive note, emphasizing the strong, composite culture that pervades, is also impressive.

    As for improvements, I would suggest considering the rhythm and flow of your poem. Some of your lines felt a bit uneven in terms of syllable count which can slightly jolt the reader out of the flow. A more consistent rhythm or some internal rhymes could elevate this piece further. Also, it might be interesting to delve more into the cultural associations or particular histories linked to some of the food items - this could deepen the metaphor even further.

    Don’t let these suggestions deter you – your work is creative, engaging, and clearly communicates a strong message. I look forward to reading more of your work!
     
    LikeReply5 months ago

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"American Broth" Poetry.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 27 Apr. 2024. <https://www.poetry.com/poem/172396/american-broth>.

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