Mandolin Rita Dove Analysis

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“Mandolin” by Rita Dove chronicled the life of Thomas and his journey from Tennessee to Ohio. Similar to the chapter of poems, the mandolin was referenced throughout the chapter along with several other musical references. Poems titled “Jiving” and “Refrain” connected the life of Thomas to the growing black culture in music and art during 1920’s. The collection of poems transition from being centered in nature to living in a lively society. For example from “The Event” to “Straw Hat”, Thomas’ life is narrated as he travels north to Akron, Ohio. Both Thomas and his musically gifted friend, Lem, travel north for job security and to meet someone to court. The danger of their travels was portrayed in “Nothing Down” as Thomas recalls hiding from

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