"Where I'm From" by George Ella Lyon is a reflective and introspective poem that explores the speaker's identity and origins by tracing various elements from their past. The poem is a celebration of the speaker's roots, memories, and family heritage, as well as the tangible and intangible aspects that have shaped their sense of self. Through vivid imagery and personal associations, the poem paints a portrait of the speaker's upbringing and the significance of the people, places, and objects that have contributed to their identity.
"Where I'm From" by George Ella Lyon
I am from clothespins,
from Clorox and carbon-tetrachloride.
I am from the dirt under the back porch.
(Black, glistening,
it tasted like beets.)
I am from the forsythia bush
the Dutch elm
whose long-gone limbs I remember
as if they were my own.
I'm from fudge and eyeglasses,
from Imogene and Alafair.
I'm from the know-it-alls
and the pass-it-ons,
from Perk up! and Pipe down!
I'm from He restoreth my soul
with a cottonball lamb
and ten verses I can say myself.
I'm from Artemus and Billie's Branch,
fried corn and strong coffee.
From the finger my grandfather lost
to the auger,
the eye my father shut to keep his sight.
Under my bed was a dress box
spilling old pictures,
a sift of lost faces
to drift beneath my dreams.
I am from those moments--
snapped before I budded --
leaf-fall from the family tree.
Summary of "Where I'm From" by George Ella
This poem reminds me of Emma Goldman's lines:What is patriotism? Is it love of one’s birthplace, the place of childhood’s recollections and hopes, dreams and aspirations? Is it the place where, in childlike naivety, we would watch the fleeting clouds, and wonder why we, too, could not run so swiftly? The place where we would count the milliard glittering stars, terror-stricken lest each one “an eye should be,” piercing the very depths of our little souls? Is it the place where we would listen to the music of the birds, and long to have wings to fly, even as they, to distant lands? Or the place where we would sit at mother’s knee, enraptured by wonderful tales of great deeds and conquests? In short, is it love for the spot, every inch representing dear and precious recollections of a happy, joyous, and playful childhood?To interpret this poem, it’s helpful to read it as a whole first. In the final lines, we realize that each word or phrase paints an image—a picture from memory. When Lyon says, "Under my bed was a dress box spilling old pictures, a sift of lost faces to drift beneath my dreams. I am from those moments—leaf-fall from the family tree", she reflects on how her identity is rooted in cherished childhood memories, reminding us that we are all shaped by the lives we’ve lived and the experiences we've had.
The poem begins with imagery of clothespins, Clorox (a bleach used in laundry), and carbon tetrachloride (a chemical used in dry cleaning), evoking her memories of family laundry routines. Though simple, these memories are filled with nostalgia, as they are connected to her childhood. She recalls the taste of dirt under the back porch, describing it as “tasting like beets”—a reference to the earthy taste of beets, perhaps like soil after rain. Many children play in dirt, and this memory from her early years is captured in these lines.
She remembers the forsythia bush and the Dutch elm tree, plants she fondly recalls as if they were extensions of herself, even though limbs of Dutch elm tree are now long gone but she can perfectly remember it. Moving on, Lyon remembers childhood friends, Imogene and Alafair. One friend enjoyed fudge, a sweet treat, while the other wore eyeglasses. Each friend had their own character: one was a “know-it-all,” and the other was more of a “pass-it-on” personality. She remembers phrases like “Perk up!” and “Pipe down!”, as well as verses from Psalm 23, such as “He restoreth my soul”, possibly something she heard in sermons and found comforting. The cottonball lamb likely represents Jesus as the Lamb of God, with children’s crafts often symbolizing Him with cotton balls. She recalls memorizing ten verses of this psalm, which speaks of strength in the face of hardship.
In the next lines, she identifies herself as coming from places like Billies Bay Branch and Artemus in Kentucky, along with the flavors of fried corn and strong coffee that characterize the region. There’s a memory of her grandfather losing a finger to an auger, a tool used for drilling into wood. An intriguing line follows, referencing her father closing one eye “to keep his sight”. This could suggest that he shielded a part of himself to preserve something essential—possibly symbolizing selective blindness to maintain a certain perspective, or it might refer to a literal loss of vision.
The final stanza explains how all these memories are preserved in pictures, stored in a dress box under her bed. These images of loved ones, “snapped before I budded”, are like fallen leaves from the family tree, connecting her to her roots.
Psalm 23:
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. 3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Pics of Synthia Bush, Dutch Elm Tree, Fudge, Cottonball Lamb
Meaning of Artemus and Billie's Branch
Artemus is an unincorporated community and census-designated place in Knox County, Kentucky, United States.Billie Branch is a stream in Marshall, Kentucky. Billie Branch is situated close to the localities Fenton and Unity.
Pictures of Artemus and Billie's Branch
Critical Analysis of Where I'm From, George Ella
'Where I'm From' is a widely celebrated poem often taught in classrooms around the world. Its universal appeal lies in its ability to help readers express the essence of where they come from, highlighting what makes each person unique.Everyone has their own story, and this poem captures those specific details, allowing a deep exploration of background, home, childhood, upbringing, and family culture.
About George Ella Lyon
George Ella Lyon is a poet, writer, musician, storyteller, and educator. She was inspired to write this poem after reading Stories I Ain't Told Nobody Yet by Jo Carson, where one person asked, "I want to know when you get to be from a place." This question led her to explore her own roots, creating a poem that reveals the impactful memories of her upbringing.Written in 1993, this poem has evolved beyond her notebook, as Lyon shares:
"Since then, the poem as a writing prompt has traveled in amazing ways. People have used it at family reunions, teachers have shared it with students worldwide. Its journey is a testament to the power of poetry, roots, and teaching. Thank you to all who have embraced and shared it."
'Where I'm From' lets readers glimpse into the speaker’s intimate world, building an identity shaped by experiences and memories.
The poem reflects on a childhood shaped by meaningful items, each linking back to the speaker’s identity. It answers the question “Who am I?” as the speaker invites readers on a journey through her past, exploring her home, upbringing, and environment.
Everyday objects in the poem connect to the speaker, bringing life to memories. Her connection to nature, like the forsythia bush and elm trees, signifies a rooted and stable identity. The speaker’s relationship with her surroundings extends to religion, as seen in phrases like “He restoreth my soul” from Psalm 23.
Through these symbols, the speaker explores childhood trials and growth. References like wearing “pass-it-ons” hint at hand-me-downs or whispered family secrets, while phrases like “perk up” or “pipe down” depict life lessons imparted by family.
Setting in Kentucky
In the third stanza, the poem moves to Kentucky, specifically Artemus and Billie's Branch (Artemus and Billie's Branch are locations in Kentucky). The rural setting shows the speaker’s connection to her family through memories of foods, family injuries, and strong ties.
Curiously, the mother isn't mentioned, which may suggest the home and surroundings fill that space.
Poetic Imagery and Devices
The poem concludes with imagery of family, memories, and roots, represented by a box of ancestral images under the bed. Phrases like “snapped before she budded” suggest missed potential or a break from family.
Poetic Style: The free verse poem contains 29 lines divided into four stanzas, with no rhyme scheme, creating a natural rhythm. The speaker uses first-person perspective and emphasizes identity with repeated phrases like “I am from”.
Language and Diction: The poem’s language is rich with domestic references and local dialect, showcasing a strong sense of belonging. Names like Imogene and Alafair represent the local culture, while Artemus and Billie's Branch hint at both family roots and locations in Kentucky.
The poem offers a vivid portrayal of the speaker's identity, personal history, and the significant aspects that have influenced their sense of self.
The use of specific objects, names, places, and experiences creates a mosaic of images that connect the speaker to their past.
The imagery of dirt, forsythia bushes, and Dutch elms invokes a sense of nostalgia and nature's role in the speaker's upbringing.
The inclusion of familial names and phrases reflects the traditions, language, and values passed down through generations.
The phrase "I am from those moments-- snapped before I budded -- leaf-fall from the family tree" captures the impermanence of time and the interconnectedness of generations.
Exploring Identity Through Memory
"Where I’m From" is a journey that unfolds through recollections and imagery. The speaker guides readers through her childhood, tracing the path back to the very home where she grew up. This journey is characterized by a connection to objects and places that hold significance in her life. As these domestic objects are revealed, they become vivid symbols of her personal history. The poem breathes life into her home environment, painting a vibrant picture of her upbringing. The narrative is a blend of simplicity and nostalgia, conveying the idea that the speaker's identity is deeply intertwined with her surroundings and experiences.
Nature and Rootedness
Amidst the domestic images, nature also plays a significant role in shaping the speaker's identity. The mention of the forsythia bush and the helm (branches) that feel like her own emphasizes her connection to the natural world. This imagery serves as a metaphor for her rooted existence and steady growth, reflecting the idea that her identity has been nurtured by the environment around her.
Religious and Moral Influences
The second stanza of the poem delves into the speaker's religious upbringing. References to phrases like "He restoreth my soul" from Psalm 23 and "cotton ball lamb" which could symbolize Jesus Christ, suggest a foundation of faith. The mention of the "ten verses" further highlights the influence of religious teachings on her identity formation.
Lessons from Life and Authority Figures
The poem also acknowledges the impact of life lessons and authority figures. The mention of "know-it-alls" who possess unwavering confidence despite limited knowledge, reflects the theme of humility and the importance of continuous learning. The phrases "Perk up and Pipe down" resonate as advice given by adults to encourage a positive outlook and moderation in speech.
Nostalgia for Ancestral Roots
The third stanza transports readers to the rural setting of Kentucky, specifically Artemus and Billie's Branch. Here, the mention of "fried corn" evokes a sense of simplicity and authenticity. The speaker's identity is further enriched by the stories and experiences rooted in this place.
The references to her grandfather's finger lost in an accident and her father's injured eye highlight the physical and emotional ties to her family's history. These instances contribute to her sense of identity by connecting her to her ancestors and their shared experiences.
The Power of Memories and Imagery
The poem culminates with a vivid image of the speaker's dress box stored under the bed, overflowing with images from her past. This imagery suggests that her identity is a compilation of cherished memories and ancestral portraits, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia and a desire to preserve the past.
Interpretation of the Final Lines
The poem's closing lines, "snapped before she budded," leave readers with a sense of mystery. This metaphor suggests that the speaker's growth and potential may have been hindered or restrained. It implies that she has moved away from her family's influence to develop her own identity.
Tone and Structure
"Where I’m From" is presented as a free verse poem with 28 lines divided into four stanzas. The absence of a set rhyme scheme and the varied meter contribute to shifts in rhythm and tone throughout the poem. The narrator's voice is direct and introspective, using the repetition of "I am from" to establish a strong sense of identity. The poem combines straightforward storytelling with vivid imagery, creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the reader.
Use of Repetition
The repetition of "I am from" serves as a rhetorical device to emphasize the exploration of identity. The first stanza employs a triple repetition, which gradually transitions to the shortened "I’m from" as the poem progresses. The strategic placement of this repetition adds depth and complexity to the exploration of the speaker's identity, keeping the reader engaged and intrigued.
In conclusion, "Where I’m From" is a reflective exploration of identity, memories, and personal history. Through vivid imagery and introspective storytelling, the poem invites readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery alongside the speaker.
Themes
- Identity and Origins: The poem explores the speaker's sense of self, shaped by familial connections, experiences, and memories.
- Heritage and Tradition: The poem highlights the significance of familial names, phrases, and traditions that have been passed down through generations.
- Connection to Nature: The poem emphasizes the speaker's connection to nature through imagery of plants, trees, and the environment.
Attitudes/Feelings
- Nostalgia: The poem conveys a sense of nostalgia and reflection as the speaker traces their past and memories.
- Appreciation for Heritage: The poem celebrates the speaker's family heritage and the experiences that have shaped their identity.
Literary Devices
- Imagery: The poem uses vivid sensory imagery to paint a picture of the speaker's past and experiences.
- Alliteration: The repetition of consonant sounds in phrases like "Perk up! and Pipe down!" adds rhythm and emphasis.
- Metaphor: The comparison of lost moments to "leaf-fall from the family tree" symbolizes the passage of time and the interconnectedness of generations.
Exploring Language and Imagery in "Where I’m From" Poem
The poem "Where I’m From" is rich in language that emphasizes a sense of belonging and nostalgia. Through the careful selection of words and specific objects, the speaker creates a vivid portrayal of her childhood home and the memories associated with it. This poem is akin to a time capsule, preserving the essence of the speaker's early life experiences and cherished belongings.
Language of Belonging and Specific Objects
The language of belonging is a recurring theme in the poem. The speaker's identity and origin are established through phrases like "I am from" and "I’m from," which serve as anchors for her memories and experiences. These phrases help create a sense of continuity and connection between her past and present self.
Specific objects introduced in the poem contribute to this language of belonging. For instance, the mention of "clothespins that is Clorox" and "carbon tetrachloride" invokes a domestic atmosphere, drawing the reader into the speaker's world. Even words like "Imogene" and "Alafair," which are specific to the region where the speaker grew up, reinforce her cultural roots and identity.
Geographical Allusions
The poem also features geographical allusions that contribute to the speaker's sense of belonging. The reference to "Artemus and Billie’s Branch" suggests a connection to her family's heritage and the convergence of two significant places in Kentucky. These allusions provide a context for the speaker's upbringing and highlight the importance of her family history.
Interpreting the Title and Themes
Upon initial examination, the title "Where I’m From" appears to reflect the speaker's reflection on her life and the formative experiences that shaped her identity. The poem delves into important events, objects, places, and ideas from the speaker's early life, ultimately presenting a glimpse into her rural upbringing.
The speaker's connection to nature, her familiarity with specific foods like "fried corn," and allusions to church life suggest a rural background. While some elements like "Artemus" may seem symbolic, they likely refer to individuals or places in the speaker's personal history.
The shift in the poem occurs around line 16, where the speaker's focus transitions from specific examples to a broader exploration of her origins. This shift underscores the evolving nature of identity and the complexity of one's roots.
Themes and Conclusion
The theme of "Where I’m From" centers around personal identity and the significance of early-life connections. The poem emphasizes the notion that an individual's identity is shaped by the things and experiences they connect with during their formative years.
In conclusion, "Where I’m From" is a timeless poem that has found its place in classrooms worldwide. It invites readers to reflect on their own stories and explore the elements that contribute to their identity, including their background, home, childhood memories, upbringing, and family culture. George Ellen Lyon's poem captures the essence of self-discovery and the intricate interplay between past and present.
Discussion Question
How does "Where I'm From" by George Ella Lyon explore the speaker's identity and the role of family, experiences, and objects in shaping their sense of self? How does the poem convey a sense of nostalgia and connection to nature?
