In this powerful poem, Harjo reflects on the significance of the kitchen table in our lives. She reminds us that it is more than just a piece of furniture - it is the center of our homes, the place where we gather to share meals and stories, and where important decisions are made. The use of repetition in the line "the world begins at a kitchen table" emphasizes the idea that this simple, everyday object holds immense importance and meaning.1. "Perhaps the World Ends Here" by Joy Harjo
Harjo uses vivid imagery in this poem to paint a picture of a kitchen table that has been passed down through generations. She describes the scratches and stains on its surface, each one carrying a story and a memory. This speaks to the idea that our family histories are deeply intertwined with the objects we inherit, and they hold a special place in our hearts and homes.2. "Kitchen Table" by Joy Harjo
This poem is a powerful commentary on the struggles and traumas that women face, and the strength and resilience they possess. The image of a woman hanging from a thirteenth floor window is a metaphor for the weight and pressure society places on women, and the constant battle they face to survive and thrive. Harjo's use of repetition in the line "she hangs on" emphasizes the determination and courage of this woman.3. "The Woman Hanging from the Thirteenth Floor Window" by Joy Harjo
In this poem, Harjo explores the complexity of identity and the different roles that women play. The horses represent different aspects of the woman - her strength, her vulnerability, her wildness. It is a reminder that women are multifaceted and cannot be defined by one label or stereotype. The use of repetition in the line "she had some horses" further emphasizes this idea.4. "She Had Some Horses" by Joy Harjo
This poem tells the story of a woman who falls from the sky and transforms into a bird, flying through the world and witnessing the injustices and struggles of others. Harjo uses this imagery to illustrate the idea that women have a unique perspective, one that allows them to see the world in a different way and to empathize with others. The use of repetition in the line "the woman who fell from the sky" emphasizes the power and importance of this woman's journey.5. "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky" by Joy Harjo
This haunting poem reflects on the idea of death and the passing of time. The kitchen table serves as a metaphor for life, with each meal representing a different stage or chapter. Harjo reminds us that we must savor each moment and cherish the memories we create, because eventually, the last song will be sung and the table will be cleared. The use of repetition in the line "the last song" emphasizes the finality and inevitability of death.6. "The Last Song" by Joy Harjo
Harjo uses the powerful image of a flood to represent the overwhelming and destructive forces that women face in their lives. Whether it is violence, discrimination, or other forms of oppression, women are often forced to weather these storms alone. The use of repetition in the line "she floods the earth" emphasizes the idea that women have the power to rise up and overcome these challenges.7. "The Flood" by Joy Harjo
This poem explores the idea of transformation and rebirth. The woman in the poem falls from the sky, but instead of falling to her death, she transforms into a bird and is able to soar above the world. This is a powerful message of resilience and the ability to rise above adversity. The use of repetition in the line "the woman who fell from the sky" emphasizes the transformative journey of this woman.8. "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky" by Joy Harjo
This poem speaks to the deep connection between women and nature. The woman in the poem is depicted as a force of nature, with the power to create and destroy. Harjo reminds us that women are not separate from the natural world - they are a part of it, and have the ability to shape and change it. The use of repetition in the line "the woman who fell from the sky" emphasizes the primal and elemental nature of this woman.9. "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky" by Joy Harjo
The final poem on this list is a powerful tribute to the strength and resilience of women. Harjo uses the image of a woman falling from the sky to represent the struggles and challenges that women face, but also the power and determination they possess to rise above them. The use of repetition in the line "the woman who fell from the sky" ties together the themes of transformation, connection, and inner strength present in Harjo's poetry.10. "The Woman Who Fell from the Sky" by Joy Harjo