Lecture on Poem 38 by Laylee Long Soldier

Introduction

• Focus on creative arguments through creative expression.
• The poem is an example of working an argument creatively.

Form and Genre

• Falls within the genre of 'documentary poetry' or 'docupoetry.'
• Documentary poetry derives from historical or journalistic sources.
• Often undermines or subverts language used in source material.

Title and Language

• Title of the book: "Whereas."
  • Language typically seen in political resolutions and formal declarations.
  • Use of legalistic language to make a statement.

Historical Context

• The poem discusses the historical event where 38 Lakota men were hanged.
• The event was subject to a congressional resolution during Obama's presidency which issued an apology.
• Highlights the lack of meaningful actions beyond the apology.

Indigenous People's Struggles

• Native American relocation to less useful lands by the U.S. Government.
  • Pushed to areas like Oklahoma, South Dakota.
  • Reservations often conflict with U.S. Government interests.
• Indigenous people cut off from American culture and economic opportunities.

Critique of Historical Figures

• Long Soldier critiques President Lincoln for his role in the execution.
• Comparison with Lincoln's revered status for the Emancipation Proclamation.
• Highlights the complex legacies of historical figures.

Dual Perspective

• Long Soldier offers a perspective often erased from history books.
• Presents the viewpoint of marginalized groups against mainstream narratives.

Tone and Structure

• Poem's tone: calm, slow, cold, factual presentation of deeply personal issues.
• Uses formal, structured language of government to tell a painful story.

Techniques and Audience

• Emphasis on sentences in poetry, which is not common.
• Target audience: General readers, aiming for an awareness of overlooked histories.

Broader Context

• Parallel discussions with Black Lives Matter and civil rights movements.
• Emphasizes the absence of Native American history in mainstream education.
• Native Americans' participation in protests (e.g., George Floyd protests).

Purpose and Impact

• Purpose: To bear witness and make marginalized histories known.
• Importance of accountability and change through sharing personal and historical truths.

Success and Recognition

• The book has received critical acclaim and was a nominee for the Griffin Prize.
• Notable small press publication.

Additional Resources

• Video of Long Soldier reading the poem.
  • Adds valuable context.
  • Recommended to listen for picking up nuances in her reading style.