Biography Poetry

Carver: A Life in Poems

By: Marilyn Nelson

Nelson, Marilyn. 2001. Carver: A Life in Poems. New York, NY" Scholastic Inc.

ISBN: 0439443393

Carver is a collection of poems formed into a bibliographic novel about the life of George Washington Carver. Carver was a scientist, educator, artist, and inventor. He made a large impact on the African American community. He made great discoveries in the area of agriculture, and mostly with peanuts. The book is laid out with poems written from people's perspective that were a part of Carver's life. Nelson also includes important dates and facts about Carver's life on some of the bottoms of the pages. Also, real black and white photographs are located throughout the book with dates and captions, and they provide good visual aides.

Nelson's poetry is filled with figurative language and many of the poems are abstract. This type of writing style leaves room for much interpretation from the reader. The book leans more towards the young adult. The poems can be understood by the audience, but the writing does expand the readers linguistic ability. Many young adults may not know who Carver is or what he accomplished, but after reading this novel they will gain insight into the man that had such a lasting impact.

Some of the poems focus on the kind heart Carver appeared to have. "Friends of the Klan" is about one of Carver's friends being a part of the KKK, and Carver praying for his friend. Other poems focus on the hardship that Carver went through as he enrolled in college to further his career. "Cafeteria Food" is about the hurt feelings Carver endures as he attended Iowa State College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts in 1891. Carver: A Life in Poems is a great example of how poetry can read not only to entertain but also to inform.

Goliath

for J.B.

Professor Carver smiles. "God is right here.

Don't loose contact with Him. Don't yield to fear.

Fear is the root of hate, and hate destroys

the hater. When Saul's army went to war

against the Philistines, the Israelites

lost contact, fearful of Goliath's might.

"When we lose contact, we see only hate,

only injustice, a giant so great

its shadow blocks our sun. But David slew

Goliath with the only things he knew:

the slingshot of intelligence, and one

pebble of truth. And the battle was done."

Activity: This poem is about overcoming racism. This poem would be great to share with students during the month of February, which is black history month. After sharing this poem and discussing what it means to overcome hardship, students can research other great leaders in the African American community and make presentations to share with the class. Students can write a poem and create a poster to share about their leader of choice. Posters and poems can be displayed in the hallway all through the month of February.