The Emigree - Carol Rumens

• Who is the author of "The Emigrée"?

  Carol Rumens
• What is the main theme of "The Emigrée"?

  • Memories of a childhood home
  • Discrimination in a new country
  • Nostalgia and loss
• What does the narrator reflect on in "The Emigrée"?

  Her memories of the country she left
• How does the narrator view her memories of her homeland?

  She believes they are infallible
• What does the narrator acknowledge about her homeland in the poem?

  It has tyrants and wars
• How does the narrator's perspective change over time?

  She gains more clarity on the situation
• What role does language play in the narrator's identity?

  It is important to her sense of self
• What does the narrator compare her memories to?

  A bright, filled paperweight
• How does the narrator feel about her city despite its current state?

  She has a maternal love for it
• What atmosphere does the narrator perceive in her new city?

  A threatening atmosphere from citizens
• How does the narrator's old city contrast with her new city?

  Her old city is positive, new city is hostile
• What is the significance of the title "The Emigrée"?

  It reflects conflicting cultures and identities
• What does the repetition of "they" signify in the poem?

  An aggressive and accusatory tone
• How does the narrator feel about her absence in the new city?

  She feels accused and rejected
• What literary device is used in "Through the city// Of walls."?

  Enjambment
• What does the use of free verse in the poem represent?

  Chaos and lack of control
• What does the epistrophe in the poem emphasize?

  The importance of sunlight in memories
• How does the narrator's use of the subjunctive case affect the poem?

  It shows her hypothetical view of her homeland
• What does the extended metaphor in the poem represent?

  A lost childhood
• What are the similarities between "The Emigrée" and "Checking Out Me History"?

  • Both explore cultural identity
  • Emotional significance of heritage
  • Conflict between cultures
• What are the differences between "The Emigrée" and "Checking Out Me History"?

  • Tone: Rumens is idealistic, Agard is angry
  • Imagery: Light vs. dark
  • Presentation of childhood: Dreamlike vs. demonized