Poem Analysis - I Am What I Am

Introduction: Unapologetic Self-Acceptance

Jacques Prevert's "i am what i am" is a defiant declaration of self-acceptance, delivered with a blend of nonchalance and vulnerability. The poem presents a speaker who refuses to apologize for their nature, embracing their desires and imperfections with a bold candor. The tone is initially assertive and somewhat playful, but it shifts subtly towards reflection when the speaker touches upon past experiences with love. Ultimately, the poem celebrates individuality and challenges societal expectations of conformity.

The Theme of Unconditional Self-Love

A central theme of the poem is unconditional self-love. The repetition of the phrase "I am what I am / I’m made that way" acts as a mantra, a powerful affirmation of the speaker's identity. This isn't presented as arrogance but as a fundamental truth. The speaker acknowledges their imperfections – "My heels are too high, / my figure too curved, / my breasts way too firm, / and my eyes too darkly ringed" – but instead of viewing them as flaws, they are presented as intrinsic parts of who the speaker is. The rhetorical question "what can you do about it" further reinforces this unshakeable self-acceptance, daring the reader to challenge it.

The Complexity of Love

Another prominent theme is the exploration of love and relationships. While the speaker declares, "I love the one that loves me," they immediately qualify this statement with "Is it my fault / if it’s not the same one / that I love each time?" This suggests a somewhat fluid and unconventional approach to love, acknowledging the transient nature of affection and desire. The reference to past love ("yes I loved someone, / yes someone loved me, / like children love each other") introduces a note of nostalgia and hints at a simpler, perhaps more innocent, understanding of love. This contrasts with the speaker's present-day assertion of being "made for pleasure," raising questions about the speaker's emotional depth and their evolving understanding of connection.

Rejection of Societal Expectations

The poem also tackles the theme of rejection of societal expectations. The speaker implicitly defies conventional norms by embracing their sexuality and desires without shame. Phrases like "I’m made for pleasure" and "I please who I please" are not just expressions of personal preference; they are a form of rebellion against societal pressures to conform to certain standards of behavior and appearance. The speaker's physical attributes, described with a touch of defiance, become symbols of their refusal to be defined by others' expectations.

The Symbolism of Physical Attributes

The poem employs physical attributes as symbols. The "high heels," "curved figure," "firm breasts," and "darkly ringed eyes" are not merely descriptive details; they represent aspects of the speaker's personality and life experiences. The high heels might symbolize confidence and a willingness to stand out, while the darkly ringed eyes could suggest a life lived fully, perhaps even with its share of hardships. These details paint a vivid picture of a woman who is comfortable in her own skin, regardless of societal judgments.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Authenticity

In conclusion, "i am what i am" is a powerful statement of self-acceptance and individuality. Through its unapologetic tone, its exploration of love and desire, and its rejection of societal norms, the poem encourages readers to embrace their own unique qualities and to live authentically. The poem's significance lies in its celebration of the messy, complex, and ultimately beautiful reality of being human, flaws and all. It leaves the reader with a sense of empowerment, urging them to ask themselves: if I am what I am, what can anyone do about it?