Multicultural Voices of American Poetry in Modern Period

 In the last few decades of the 20th century, American poetry underwent a transformation with the emergence of various distinct cultural traditions. This resulted in a blend of diverse cultural expressions that provided a new form of artistic expression to poets from different backgrounds. Among these traditions were Asian American, Chicano and Chicana, and Native American poetry.

Asian American poets, for instance, explored their integration into American culture and their ethnic identity through poetry. The works of poets like Garrett Hongo, Alan Chong Lau, John Yau, and Cathy Song expanded the definition of Asian American poetry.

On the other hand, Chicano and Chicana poetry had a long-standing tradition in America, particularly in New Mexico, where poets like Victor Bernal published intricate lyrics in the early 20th century. The publication of Chicano and Chicana works increased dramatically after the founding of Quinto Sol Publications in 1967. José Montoya, Rudolfo Anaya, Lorna Dee Cervantes, Cherrie Moraga, Benjamin Alire Sáenz, and Gary Soto are among the innovative Chicano and Chicana writers. Their works often blend poetry and prose, Spanish and English, and oral and written traditions.

Native Americans have the longest sustained tradition of poetry in North America, and their poets often ground their work in the long-standing traditions and oral cultures of their peoples. While some Native American poets wrote in English early in the nation’s history, most Native American poetry in English is of relatively recent origin. The works of writers like N. Scott Momaday (Kiowa), Joseph Bruchac (Abenaki), Simon Ortiz (Acoma), Sherman Alexie (Spokane/Coeur d’Alene), Carroll Arnett (Cherokee), Roberta Hill (Oneida), Wendy Rose (Hopi), James Welch (Blackfeet), Paula Gunn Allen (Laguna), Linda Hogan (Chicasaw), Joy Harjo (Creek), and Ray Young Bear (Mesquakie) are a testimony to the rich legacy of Native American poetry.

The blending of diverse cultural expressions in poetry offers a unique and enriching perspective to the literary world. Through poetry, different cultural traditions come together to tell their stories, celebrate their heritage, and explore their identities in the American context.

From a critical perspective, the emergence of multicultural poetry in America highlights the need for inclusivity and representation in all spheres of society. The voices of these poets challenge the dominant narratives that have excluded and marginalized minority groups. Their works open up new possibilities for cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, and they challenge us to rethink our assumptions and prejudices.

In conclusion, the emergence of multicultural poetry in America in the modern era is a testament to the diversity and richness of American culture. These voices offer a unique perspective on the American experience, and their works challenge us to embrace inclusivity and representation in all spheres of society. From a personal perspective, the multicultural voices of American poetry in the modern era provide a glimpse into the complex and nuanced experiences of different ethnic communities in America. As a world citizen we can recognize these value of diversity and representation in literature.

Note:

Chicano and Chicana: Chicano and Chicana Poetry is a literary movement that emerged in the 1960s and 70s, expressing the experiences and struggles of Mexican-Americans in the United States. It often includes themes of identity, culture, and social justice, and uses a variety of poetic forms and styles.

Native American: Native Americans are the indigenous people of the United States, including Alaska and Hawaii. They have a rich and diverse culture, history, and languages, and have faced significant challenges such as forced relocation, discrimination, and loss of land and resources.

Asian American: Asian Americans are a diverse group of people with origins in the continent of Asia, including countries such as China, India, Japan, Korea, and the Philippines. They have contributed greatly to the cultural, economic, and social fabric of the United States.

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Reference

1. Folsom, Ed. "American Literature: Poetry." Microsoft® Student 2009 [DVD]. Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation, 2008. 

2. 100 Great Poems. (n.d.). 100 Great Poems. https://americanliterature.com/100-great-poems/

3. American poetry - Wikipedia. (2018, June 1). American Poetry - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_poetry