The author displays meaningful description and imagery. “It’s all a matter of exposure and a training of the ear for the would be writer in those early years of his apprenticeship." poets need training and are inspired by what they see and hear. Paule Marshall grew up among poets, and around the kitchen. This inspired her to write. She learned a lot from her mother who gathered around the kitchen and would talk. “And their talk was a refuge. They never really ceased being baffled and overwhelmed by America--- its vastness, complexity and power. Paule Marshalls mother would talk about politics and this helped them recover from a hard day and reassured them that they are worth something. It was a way for them to overcome their stress. Paule
