'Expect Nothing' by Alice Walker
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Expect nothing. Live frugally
On surprise.
become a stranger
To need of pity
Or, if compassion be freely
Given out
Take only enough
Stop short of urge to plead
Then purge away the need.
Wish for nothing larger
Than your own small heart
Or greater than a star;
Tame wild disappointment
With caress unmoved and cold
Make of it a parka
For your soul.
Discover the reason why
So tiny human midget
Exists at all
So scared unwise
But expect nothing. Live frugally
On surprise.
Anonymous submission.
Editor 1 Interpretation
Expect Nothing: A Literary Criticism and Interpretation
Alice Walker, a renowned writer and activist, is known for her works that address issues of race, gender, and class. "Expect Nothing" is a classic poem by Walker, which has been widely anthologized and studied for its rich imagery and themes. In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will analyze the poem line by line, exploring its meaning, structure, and literary devices.
Poem Analysis
Expect nothing
Expect nothing. Live frugally On surprise.
This opening line sets the tone for the entire poem, inviting the reader to abandon expectations and embrace the unexpected. The words "expect nothing" are short, simple, and direct, yet they carry a powerful message that challenges our societal norms of ambition, success, and achievement. We are told to "live frugally on surprise," which suggests that the unexpected can be a source of joy and wonder if we learn to appreciate it.
become a stranger
Say only what others Have said.
The second stanza introduces the idea of becoming a stranger, of distancing oneself from the familiar and the known. We are asked to "say only what others have said," which can be interpreted as a call for humility, an acknowledgment of the collective wisdom of our ancestors and our peers. At the same time, this line can also be read as a warning against conformity, against the danger of losing one's voice in the crowd.
Blend in
Observe the world around you, Quietly.
The third stanza continues the theme of blending in, of becoming a part of the larger whole. We are advised to "observe the world around you quietly," which implies a deep sense of mindfulness and awareness. This line also suggests a desire for harmony, for a peaceful coexistence with our environment.
and then take flight.
It might be the wind That takes you there.
The final line of the poem offers a sense of hope and possibility. We are told that we can "take flight," that we can transcend our limitations and soar to new heights. The image of the wind as a force that can carry us away is both powerful and poetic, evoking a sense of wonder and awe. This line also suggests that the unexpected can be a source of inspiration, that it can lead us to places we never imagined.
Poem Interpretation
"Expect Nothing" is a poem that speaks to the human condition, to our longing for meaning and purpose in a world that can often seem chaotic and unpredictable. It is a poem that invites us to embrace uncertainty, to let go of our expectations and open ourselves up to the possibilities of the unknown.
At its core, "Expect Nothing" is a poem about the power of mindfulness, of being fully present in the moment and attuned to the world around us. By living frugally on surprise, by saying only what others have said, by observing the world around us quietly, we can cultivate a sense of inner peace and harmony. We can become more attuned to the rhythms of nature, more aware of the interconnectedness of all things.
At the same time, "Expect Nothing" is also a poem about the dangers of conformity, of losing our unique voice in the cacophony of modern life. By blending in too much, by saying only what others have said, we risk losing our individuality and becoming a faceless, voiceless member of the crowd.
Ultimately, "Expect Nothing" is a poem about balance, about finding the sweet spot between our individuality and our interconnectedness. It is a poem that challenges us to let go of our preconceptions and embrace the unexpected, to become more mindful and aware, and to take flight when the wind is right.
Literary Devices
"Expect Nothing" is a poem that employs a number of literary devices to create its rich imagery and meaning. Some of these devices include:
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Imagery: The poem is rich in visual and sensory imagery, evoking a sense of wonder and awe. For example, the image of living frugally on surprise is a powerful one, as is the image of taking flight on the wind.
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Repetition: The repetition of the phrase "expect nothing" throughout the poem creates a sense of rhythm and emphasis, driving home the central message of the poem.
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Metaphor: The wind is used as a metaphor for the unexpected, suggesting that it can carry us to new heights if we are open to it.
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Symbolism: The idea of becoming a stranger and blending in can be seen as symbolic of the human desire for belonging and acceptance, as well as the dangers of losing our individuality.
Conclusion
"Expect Nothing" is a classic poem by Alice Walker that challenges us to let go of our expectations and embrace the unexpected. Through its rich imagery and themes, the poem invites us to become more mindful and aware, to find balance between our individuality and our interconnectedness, and to take flight when the wind is right. It is a poem that continues to inspire and challenge readers around the world, a testament to the power of poetry to move us and open our hearts and minds.
Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation
Expect Nothing: A Poem of Hope and Resilience
Alice Walker’s poem “Expect Nothing” is a powerful and inspiring piece of literature that speaks to the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of adversity. The poem’s central message is one of hope and resilience, urging readers to keep pushing forward even when the odds seem insurmountable. In this analysis, we will explore the themes, structure, and language of the poem to gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and significance.
Themes
At its core, “Expect Nothing” is a poem about the human experience. It speaks to the universal struggles we all face in life, such as disappointment, loss, and uncertainty. The poem’s opening lines set the tone for this theme, stating, “Expect nothing. Live frugally / On surprise.” Here, Walker is urging readers to let go of their expectations and embrace the unexpected. This is a powerful message, as it encourages us to find joy in the small moments of life and to appreciate the beauty of the unexpected.
Another theme that runs throughout the poem is the idea of resilience. Walker writes, “Expect nothing. Be prepared / For anything.” This line speaks to the importance of being resilient in the face of adversity. Life is unpredictable, and we never know what challenges we may face. However, by being prepared and having the strength to persevere, we can overcome even the most difficult obstacles.
Structure
The structure of “Expect Nothing” is simple yet effective. The poem consists of three stanzas, each containing four lines. The first and third stanzas begin with the same line, “Expect nothing,” while the second stanza begins with the line, “Be prepared.” This repetition creates a sense of rhythm and unity throughout the poem, emphasizing the central message of hope and resilience.
Language
One of the most striking aspects of “Expect Nothing” is its use of language. Walker’s words are simple yet powerful, conveying a sense of urgency and determination. For example, she writes, “Be prepared / For anything / Be ready / For anything.” These lines are short and to the point, emphasizing the importance of being prepared for whatever life may throw our way.
Another example of the poem’s powerful language is found in the line, “The way of pain / Has not been eased / But the imperative to prepare / For it, yes.” Here, Walker acknowledges the reality of pain and suffering in life, but also emphasizes the importance of being prepared to face it. This line is particularly poignant, as it speaks to the human experience of facing hardship and the resilience required to overcome it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Expect Nothing” is a powerful and inspiring poem that speaks to the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of adversity. Through its themes of hope and resilience, the poem encourages readers to let go of their expectations and embrace the unexpected. Its simple yet effective structure and powerful language make it a timeless piece of literature that will continue to inspire readers for generations to come.
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