Through the use of symbolism, diction, and imagery, Gwendolyn Brooks demonstrates that even during times of struggle and worthlessness, we can reflect upon what we have, which consist of our memories and experiences we’ve shared with loved ones, which ultimately makes us rich. Gwendolyn Brooks, the poet of the poem, “The Bean Eaters,” illustrates this powerful theme by painting vivid imagery for her reader. “They eat beans mostly, this old yellow pair.” (1) Brooks provides this meaningful quote to convey many aspects and to thoroughly enable the reader to grasp the overall theme. The “they” the author refers to is an older couple, hinted at by the words “old” and “pair.” The addition of “yellow” adds an extra element of imagery, since the
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“Two who have lived their day/But keep on putting on their clothes/And putting things away” (6-8). Essentially, the poet points out that this old couple, who have lived long lives, are aware how their stories are coming to an end. However, they never quit living, no matter the circumstance of having plain and boring lives. They keep on putting on their clothes, they keep on putting things away. The poet hevilly signifies how the Bean Eaters keep on continuing life, and embracing what they have, even though it is not much. The couple live a routine-like cycle, which revolves like a never ending wheel. They wake up, get dressed, clean up, eat beans, and repeat. This state of mind the poet gives the reader about the couple’s ordinary and plain lives therefore causes the reader to build up a great deal of respect for them, since even though poverty and age has taken a toll on the couple, they remain strong, and they keep going. The couple’s perseverance contributes to empower the reader and inspire them to make the most of the worst situations and feel fortunate for what they have and who they share their lives …show more content…
The couple recollect and hold onto their blessings and unfortunate memories, even though they are moving through poverty-stricken days filled with eating beans. The poet highlights the word “remembering” to make the point that this old couple, chances are, who are grandparents, hang on to reminiscence. Although they may not have all the money in the world, they have their memories, which make them rich with experience, wisdom, and contentment. Significant diction, in the words “twinking and twinges,” is an integral poetic device, assisting the development of the theme. “Twinklings” represents the young, happy conditions the couple are brought back to, while “twinges” portrays the pain of old age or past regrets. The feelings and sensations sparked by remembrance of memories are luxurious. Money may provide someone with luxuries, such as a million dollar house, gold watches, or designer purses, but memories cannot be bought, as well as cannot be replaced or forgotten. Memories cannot be stolen or lost, like money or jewelry can. Our memories and experiences are ultimately what makes us rich, in the priceless emotions which brings us tears, joy, and laugher. The long list of old objects the poet gives, “beads and receipts and dolls and cloths, tobacco crumbs,
“Two who have lived their day/But keep on putting on their clothes/And putting things away” (6-8). Essentially, the poet points out that this old couple, who have lived long lives, are aware how their stories are coming to an end. However, they never quit living, no matter the circumstance of having plain and boring lives. They keep on putting on their clothes, they keep on putting things away. The poet hevilly signifies how the Bean Eaters keep on continuing life, and embracing what they have, even though it is not much. The couple live a routine-like cycle, which revolves like a never ending wheel. They wake up, get dressed, clean up, eat beans, and repeat. This state of mind the poet gives the reader about the couple’s ordinary and plain lives therefore causes the reader to build up a great deal of respect for them, since even though poverty and age has taken a toll on the couple, they remain strong, and they keep going. The couple’s perseverance contributes to empower the reader and inspire them to make the most of the worst situations and feel fortunate for what they have and who they share their lives …show more content…
The couple recollect and hold onto their blessings and unfortunate memories, even though they are moving through poverty-stricken days filled with eating beans. The poet highlights the word “remembering” to make the point that this old couple, chances are, who are grandparents, hang on to reminiscence. Although they may not have all the money in the world, they have their memories, which make them rich with experience, wisdom, and contentment. Significant diction, in the words “twinking and twinges,” is an integral poetic device, assisting the development of the theme. “Twinklings” represents the young, happy conditions the couple are brought back to, while “twinges” portrays the pain of old age or past regrets. The feelings and sensations sparked by remembrance of memories are luxurious. Money may provide someone with luxuries, such as a million dollar house, gold watches, or designer purses, but memories cannot be bought, as well as cannot be replaced or forgotten. Memories cannot be stolen or lost, like money or jewelry can. Our memories and experiences are ultimately what makes us rich, in the priceless emotions which brings us tears, joy, and laugher. The long list of old objects the poet gives, “beads and receipts and dolls and cloths, tobacco crumbs,