Rediscovering Thanksgiving Through Poetry
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in our collective appreciation for Thanksgiving. This is not just about the food, family, and fellowship, but also the rich history and tradition that this holiday carries with it. Among the many ways we are rediscovering Thanksgiving, poetry stands out as a unique and intimate medium. A number of classic and contemporary poets have penned verses that beautifully encapsulate the spirit of Thanksgiving, creating a tapestry of emotions, images, and reflections that add depth and dimension to our understanding of this holiday.
Thanksgiving in Poetry
Harriet Maxwell Converse’s “The Thanksgivings” and Edgar Albert Guest’s “Thanksgiving” both offer a traditional and heartfelt take on the holiday. The former taps into the indigenous roots of the holiday, while the latter explores the quintessential family gathering. Both poems paint vivid pictures of Thanksgiving, filled with gratitude, love, and togetherness.
Meanwhile, Elizabeth Alexander’s “Butter” and Maxine W. Kumin’s “Family Reunion” bring the focus onto the food and fellowship aspect of Thanksgiving. Both poets use food as a symbol to evoke memories, create connections, and express gratitude.
In a more reflective tone, Joy Harjo’s “Perhaps the World Ends Here” and Albert Goldbarth’s “Stomach” touch on the deeper and sometimes darker sides of the holiday. The former contemplates life and death at the dinner table, while the latter critiques the commercialization and gluttony often associated with the holiday.
The Season in Verse
Thanksgiving is also about celebrating the season of autumn. John Greenleaf Whittier’s “My Triumph” and “The Pumpkin,” Paul Laurence Dunbar’s “Signs of the Times,” and John Keats’ “To Autumn” all speak of the beauty, bounty, and melancholy of autumn in a way that resonates deeply with the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Engaging with the Poetry of Thanksgiving
As we approach Thanksgiving, these poems offer us a chance to engage with the holiday in a more meaningful and personal way. They remind us of the true essence of Thanksgiving – gratitude for our blessings, love for our family and friends, and appreciation for the beauty of nature and the changing seasons. They invite us to pause, reflect, and find joy in the simple pleasures of life.
In conclusion, Thanksgiving poetry serves as a powerful tool for rediscovery and reconnection. It allows us to explore the many dimensions of this holiday, from its historical roots to its contemporary celebrations. It invites us to reconsider our own relationships with food, family, and gratitude, and to find our own unique expressions of Thanksgiving. So this year, let’s enrich our Thanksgiving celebrations with a touch of poetry.
