The poem chosen for this assignment is Indian Names by Lydia Huntley Sigourney. The poem discusses the issues related to the native population of Americas – Indian people. In the poem, Sigourney recalls crimes against Indian people – “Ye drive them from their father’s lands” (Indian Names, n.d., para. 6). The plight of the indigenous people resulting from these actions is also mentioned – “On through the trackless desert pass/ A caravan of woe” (Indian Names, n.d., para. 7). Sigourney insists throughout the poem that despite such misery fallen to their lot, these people and their legacy will not be forgotten. Moreover, the author writes in such a way as if she opposes another force that wants the Indian people and their heritage to be gone. Sigourney’s argument builds upon the fact that numerous geographic sights in the US carry Indian names – “But their name is on your waters/ Ye may not wash it out” (Indian Names, n.d., para. 1). In the poem’s finale, the author warns the reader that God saw and heard the atrocities committed against Indian people. “Think ye the Eternal’s ear is deaf?/ His sleepless vision dim?/ Think ye the soul’s blood may not cry/ From that far land to him?” asks Sigourney.
Regarding the thoughts and emotions of Sigourney at the time she was writing the poem, there must have been a diverse mix of them. In her poem, it is possible to identify the themes of mourning, retribution, and hope. While writing the poem, she must have been sorrowful for Indian people, yet her general message conveys hope – she believed that these people would survive and their legacy would live despite the circumstances. Furthermore, Sigourney must have made a mental journey throughout the United States to be able to recall and mention all of the sights carrying Indian names.
Reference
Indian Names. (n.d.). Poetry Foundation. Web.