Getting Out

I preferred Cleopatra Mathis's Getting Out poem to the others, because it was easier to read. While it may seem easy, it actually contains deep messages. What I liked about this poem is the imagery used to explain the relationship. The speaker shows how the relationship worked, and what lead to the downfall. The author is able to speak eloquently in simple language. She doesn't need to use a rhyme scheme or write in iambic pentameter in order to put her message across, she can write like a normal human being. I find this a greater skill than to compress words into a rigid structure, for it allows the true nature of the poem to come across. I found the image of the couple that loves each other, but can't find the love to stay together a very interesting notion. Mathis writes " Yet I think of the lawyer's bewilderment when we cried, the last day. Taking hands we walked apart, until our arms stretched between us. We held on tight, and let go." This shows how even though the couple couldn't stay together, they still had love for each other. I found this poem to be striking for its deep meaning with simple words.