The Meaning of "The Delight Song of Poonie Poo"
If you read my first blog post, "The Delight Song of Poonie Poo", you probably have a few questions. Like, “What is a delight song?” and, “Who is Poonie Poo?”
During a creative writing class at the University of Maryland College Park back in 2016, I discovered a piece by N. Scott Momaday called "The Delight Song of Tsoai Talee". One of our assignments was to develop our own delight song.
A delight song is a poem that expresses your oneness with nature or non-human things or anything that resonates. The poem uses the literary devices, or writing techniques, such as repetition, metaphors, and personification.
Nature and Nurture
I am the bourgeoning Daffodil.
I am the shedding Dogwood tree.
I am the plucked Sunflower;
The Eastern Redbud leaves.
Inspired by Momaday, my piece describes how I’m native to Virginia; like a Dogwood tree, my roots were planted there. I mentioned specific plants that grow in this state as my birthplace is filled with lush forests and mountains.
I also felt drawn to the delicious food my Grandma Ethel used to make, such as her sweet potato pies and homemade biscuits. My Grandma was a sweet soul who always brought everyone together. She was known for wearing her glasses on her nose and taking no crap from anyone! I remember the essence she always brought to our family, and I aspire to exude that same thing.
Fantasy and History
I am a lover of fairy tales, folklore, and medieval stories. As a child, I researched lots of mythology, I watched horror movies, and I read "Goosebumps" books. Today, I’m a fan of Netflix’s "Stranger Things" which features a Demogorgon, a mysterious alien from an alternative world. It has the most intricate mouth shaped like the Stapelia cactus with endless rows of sharp fangs. I’m not an alien, but I certainly have a mystery about me just like that character. It’s weird. Its hungry. It’s a threat. It’s truly a remarkable creation.
Lastly, I likened myself to an equestrian, someone who rides horses. Specifically, I evoked Isaac Burns Murphy, an unsung hero in Black history! He was the first American jockey to win a horse race at the Kentucky Derby three times sequentially! He, an African-American, also held the record for being the highest paid jockey of his time. He grossed on average $15,000 per annum. During segregation, a household typically made about $1,200 a year! Murphy represents resiliency and transcendence. So I highlighted him as he is someone to be admired.
I am the loyal equestrian.
I am Isaac Burns Murphy.
I am the triumphant steed;
The cash prize at the derby.
Who is Poonie Poo?
Naming a poem or any piece of writing is critical as it should summarize or encompass the nature of the work. I decided to name the poem after a nickname my mother gave me as a child: Poonie Poo. It truly brings out the joys, memories, and excitement of childhood. I wanted to use those positive elements of my youth to express how my life today is filled with delight. My inner child is rejoicing right now! Hence, the delight song of Poonie Poo.
*deep sigh*
But anyway, friends, that’s the tea. I hope you enjoyed my first poem! Did you have a favorite line? Do you have a delight song of your own?
S t a y t h o u g h t f u l …