Poem Analysis - What Is Broken Is What God Blesses

Initial Impression and Tone

Jimmy Santiago Baca's poem What Is Broken Is What God Blesses presents a profound reflection on the value of imperfection and struggle. The tone is contemplative and somewhat melancholic, yet it carries an underlying sense of hope and resilience. The poem shifts from a somber acknowledgment of hardship to a celebration of the strength found in brokenness. Baca's use of vivid imagery and symbolic language creates a powerful narrative that challenges conventional notions of blessing and perfection.

Themes of Resilience and Redemption

The poem explores the theme of resilience through the depiction of various forms of brokenness. Baca suggests that true strength and blessing come from enduring and overcoming adversity. The imagery of broken ornaments, shattered walls, and impoverished dirt roads filled with cripples highlights the idea that it is in our struggles and imperfections that we find our deepest truths. The phrase what is broken is blessed is repeated, emphasizing the theme of redemption through suffering. This theme is further developed through the contrast between the privileged and the marginalized, suggesting that true blessing comes from empathy and solidarity with the broken.

Symbolism of Brokenness and Footprints

The recurring symbol of brokenness is central to the poem's message. Broken ornaments, shattered walls, and the footprints of the marginalized all represent the idea that true value and strength come from imperfection. The footprints in the sand and mud symbolize the enduring presence of those who have been oppressed and forgotten. The breeze blowing away traces of the privileged carriage's wheel ruts signifies the transient nature of power and wealth, while the enduring footprints of the people represent the lasting impact of their struggles. The symbolism of brokenness is further emphasized through the imagery of the addict's arm seamed with needle marks, which is described as a thread line of a blanket frayed and bare from keeping the man warm. This image suggests that even in the most desperate circumstances, there is a source of warmth and comfort.

The Essence of Human Strength

The poem concludes with a powerful affirmation of the essence of human strength found in brokenness. Baca describes how in our brokenness thrives life, thrives light, thrives the essence of our strength. This final insight ties together the themes of resilience and redemption, suggesting that it is through our struggles and imperfections that we find our true strength and blessing. The poem's message is one of hope and empowerment, encouraging readers to embrace their brokenness and find solace in the knowledge that it is in our imperfections that we are truly blessed.