Poem Analysis - Like An Animal

Initial Impression and Tone

Jimmy Santiago Baca's "Like An Animal" is a poignant exploration of inner turmoil and fear, set against the backdrop of imprisonment. The poem's tone is introspective and somber, with a palpable sense of dread and vulnerability. The speaker's reflections shift from a detached observation of their inner state to a raw, emotional plea for understanding. The poem's free verse form allows for a fluid, unconstrained expression of these complex emotions, mirroring the speaker's chaotic inner landscape.

Themes of Fear and Isolation

The primary theme of "Like An Animal" is fear, specifically the fear of self-discovery and the unknown. The speaker's repeated use of the phrase "I AM SCARED" underscores this theme, highlighting their anxiety about what lies beneath their surface emotions. This fear is compounded by the theme of isolation, as the speaker is confined behind "prison walls," both literally and metaphorically. The use of the word "behind" in the first and last lines creates a sense of entrapment, emphasizing the speaker's isolation from the world and from their true self.

Themes of Self-Discovery and Mortality

The poem also explores the theme of self-discovery, as the speaker delves into their inner self, seeking to understand their true identity. The phrase "the real me" suggests a disconnect between the speaker's outward appearance and their inner self, hinting at a journey of self-discovery. Additionally, the theme of mortality is present, as the speaker refers to a part of them that "has died." This could be interpreted as a metaphor for the loss of innocence or the death of their former self, further emphasizing the theme of self-discovery.

Symbolism of the Eyes and Fingernails

The speaker's eyes and fingernails serve as powerful symbols in the poem. The eyes, described as having a "smooth texture," represent the speaker's outward appearance and the facade they present to the world. In contrast, the fingernails, described as "bloody," symbolize the speaker's inner turmoil and pain. The act of running the fingernails across the speaker's inner self, "hard as a blackboard," suggests a desperate attempt to understand and confront their fears. The chalk white scars left by this act serve as a stark reminder of the speaker's pain and the reality of their situation.

Conclusion

"Like An Animal" is a powerful exploration of fear, isolation, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of imprisonment. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, Baca crafts a poignant portrait of a speaker grappling with their inner demons and the harsh reality of their situation. The poem serves as a stark reminder of the human capacity for resilience and introspection, even in the face of adversity. Ultimately, the poem invites readers to confront their own fears and to embark on a journey of self-discovery, much like the speaker in the poem.