Remember
by Joy Harjo
Remember the sky that you were born under,
know each of the star’s stories.
Remember the moon, know who she is.
Remember the sun’s birth at dawn, that is the
strongest point of time. Remember sundown
and the giving away to night.
Remember your birth, how your mother struggled
to give you form and breath. You are evidence of
her life, and her mother’s, and hers.
Remember your father. He is your life, also.
Remember the earth whose skin you are:
red earth, black earth, yellow earth, white earth, brown earth, we are earth.
Remember the plants, trees, animal life who all have their
tribes, their families, their histories, too. Talk to them,
listen to them. They are alive poems.
Remember the wind. Remember her voice. She knows the
origin of this universe.
Remember you are all people and all people
are you.
Remember you are this universe and this
universe is you.
Remember all is in motion, is growing, is you.
Remember language comes from this.
Remember the dance language is, that life is.
Remember.
Summary of “Remember”
- The Essence of “Remember”: Joy Harjo’s poem “Remember” is a lyrical meditation on identity, connection, and the importance of acknowledging our roots. It is not simply about recalling facts, but about a deep, visceral knowing of ourselves and our place within the vastness of the universe. As a contemporary poem written in the 1990s, it feels timeless in its message, urging readers to reconnect with the natural world, ancestral history, and the very essence of life.
- “Remember” as a Reflection of Interconnectedness: The poem unfolds as a series of imperatives—“Remember”—each drawing attention to an aspect of existence that shapes who we are. Harjo begins by asking us to remember the celestial bodies, then moves to our birth, our parents, the earth itself, and all living things. This progression highlights the idea that we are not isolated individuals but are intrinsically linked to everything around us. The poem suggests that true understanding comes from listening to the stories of the natural world and recognizing the legacies of those who came before us.
- Major Themes in “Remember”: At its core, “Remember” explores themes of remembrance, interconnectedness, and the power of identity. The poem emphasizes the beauty and importance of nature, not just as a scenic backdrop, but as an active force in shaping our lives. It also celebrates the strength and sacrifices of ancestors, reminding us that we are products of generations past. Ultimately, the poem invites us to embrace our place within the universe, recognizing that we are both a part of it and a reflection of it.
Analysis of Literary Devices Used in “Remember”
Joy Harjo masterfully employs a range of literary devices to create a poem that is both evocative and profound. These techniques enhance the poem’s meaning and engage the reader on multiple levels.
- Anaphora: The repeated use of “Remember” at the beginning of nearly every line creates a powerful rhythm and reinforces the central theme of recollection. It acts as a mantra, urging the reader to actively engage in the process of remembering and recognizing. For example, “Remember the sky that you were born under,” and “Remember your birth, how your mother struggled.”
- Imagery: Harjo uses vivid imagery to paint pictures in the reader’s mind, appealing to all five senses. This creates a visceral experience, making the abstract concepts of identity and connection feel more tangible. Consider the lines, “Remember the earth whose skin you are: red earth, black earth, yellow earth, white earth, brown earth, we are earth.” This image connects us physically to the planet and emphasizes our inherent unity with it.
- Metaphor: The poem relies heavily on metaphor to establish connections between seemingly disparate ideas. For example, “They are alive poems” equates plants, trees, and animals with artistic expression, suggesting that they too have stories to tell and wisdom to share.
- Personification: Harjo frequently personifies natural elements, giving them human qualities. This is evident in the lines, “Remember the wind. Remember her voice. She knows the origin of this universe.” Attributing a voice and knowledge to the wind makes it feel like a living entity, a guardian of ancient wisdom.
- Symbolism: Several elements within the poem function as symbols, representing larger ideas. The sky, the moon, and the sun can be seen as symbols of eternity, guidance, and life force, respectively. The earth symbolizes grounding, stability, and our connection to the physical world.
Analysis of Poetic Devices Used in “Remember”
Beyond literary devices, Harjo utilizes specific poetic techniques to create a unique and compelling reading experience.
- Free Verse: The poem is written in free verse, meaning it does not adhere to a strict rhyme scheme or meter. This allows Harjo to focus on the natural rhythm of language and the emotional impact of her words, creating a more conversational and organic feel.
- Enjambment: Harjo skillfully uses enjambment, where a phrase or sentence continues from one line to the next without punctuation. This creates a sense of flow and momentum, drawing the reader forward and emphasizing certain words or ideas. For example, “Remember the wind. Remember her voice. She knows the origin of this universe.” The line breaks emphasize the mystery and power of the wind’s knowledge.
- Repetition: As mentioned earlier, the repetition of “Remember” is a key poetic device, but Harjo also employs repetition of other words and phrases, like “universe” and “is.” This creates a sense of emphasis and reinforces the poem’s central themes.
- Concise Language: The poem is remarkably concise, relying on carefully chosen words to convey complex ideas. This minimalism creates a sense of power and urgency, encouraging the reader to contemplate the meaning behind each line.
Quotes to be Used
The following lines offer a particularly poignant reflection on the importance of family and the legacy of ancestors, making them suitable for sparking meaningful conversations with younger readers.
“Remember your birth, how your mother struggled
to give you form and breath. You are evidence of
her life, and her mother’s, and hers.
Remember your father. He is your life, also.”
These lines remind us to appreciate the sacrifices made by our parents and grandparents, and to honor the connection to those who came before us.
In conclusion, “Remember” is a deeply moving and thought‑provoking poem that invites us to reconnect with ourselves, our ancestors, and the natural world. Through its masterful use of language and poetic devices, Joy Harjo creates a timeless work that continues to resonate with readers of all ages.