Poem Analysis - Riot 60 S

Introduction: A Fiery Cry of Rebellion

Maya Angelou's "Riot: 60's" is a visceral and unflinching portrayal of urban unrest during the Civil Rights era. The poem pulsates with anger and frustration, capturing the chaos and destruction of a riot while simultaneously revealing the underlying social and economic injustices that fueled it. The poem's tone is initially observational, almost detached, but gradually shifts to a more accusatory and outraged voice, culminating in a stark and unsettling conclusion. The mood is volatile, mirroring the explosive nature of the events described.

Historical Context and Social Commentary

Angelou wrote "Riot: 60's" against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement and the numerous urban riots that erupted across the United States in the 1960s. These riots, often sparked by police brutality or systemic discrimination, were a direct response to the persistent inequalities faced by African Americans. Knowing this context, the poem becomes a powerful indictment of a society that marginalized and oppressed its Black citizens. The poem reflects a collective response against years of oppression and inequality.

Theme of Economic Disenfranchisement: Burning the Symbols of Oppression

One of the central themes of the poem is the economic disenfranchisement of Black communities. The poem depicts the destruction of businesses like "YOUR FRIEND CHARLIE pawnshop" and the "FRIENDLY FINANCE FURNITURE CO.," suggesting that these establishments are seen as exploiting the poor and vulnerable. The burning of the leopard-print sofa with gold legs symbolizes a rejection of the unattainable luxury and aspirational lifestyles that are dangled before the eyes of those living in poverty. The line "Absentee landlord / you got that shit" is a direct accusation, implying that these businesses profit from the suffering of the community.

Theme of Racial Injustice: A "Racial Outlet" for Frustration

The poem powerfully conveys the theme of racial injustice. The lines "radios and teevees / crackled with static / plugged in / only to a racial outlet" speak to the lack of representation and voice afforded to Black people in mainstream media. The poem presents the riot itself as a "racial outlet," a violent eruption of pent-up frustration and anger born from years of systemic racism. The contrast between "hospitality, southern-style / corn pone grits and you-all smile" and the brutal reality of police violence highlights the hypocrisy and superficiality of racial relations.

Theme of Societal Breakdown: Brand-New Stars and Shiny Guns

The poem touches on the theme of societal breakdown, showcasing the disintegration of order and the emergence of chaos during the riot. The image of "whole blocks novae / brand-new stars" is a powerful symbol of destruction but also of potential rebirth, suggesting that from the ashes of the old system, something new might emerge. However, this hope is quickly undercut by the presence of the "national guard nervous with his shiny gun" and the chilling rhyme scheme of "Chugga chugga chigga / git me one nigga," which captures the dehumanizing language and discriminatory violence directed toward Black people. The juxtaposition of the "brand-new stars" with "brand-new cars" of policemen suggests the old system is still in control.

Symbols and Imagery: Fire, Food, and the Dehumanizing Gaze

The poem is rich in symbolism and vivid imagery. Fire serves as a potent symbol of both destruction and purification, representing the burning away of the old order and the potential for renewal. Food imagery, such as "watermelons, summer ripe / grey neckbones and boiling tripe," evokes the harsh realities of poverty and the limited options available to many in the Black community. Perhaps the most disturbing image is the final stanza, where the Black man is reduced to a target, a "nigga picka," dehumanized and hunted down by the authorities. The poem's imagery underscores the intense frustration and anger that fueled the riots and the brutal consequences faced by those who participated.

Conclusion: A Lingering Cry for Justice

"Riot: 60's" is more than just a depiction of urban unrest; it's a powerful indictment of systemic racism, economic inequality, and the dehumanization of Black people. Through vivid imagery and a shifting tone, Angelou captures the raw emotion and desperation that drove the riots, leaving the reader with a haunting sense of the injustice that persists. The poem serves as a reminder of the struggles for equality that continue to resonate today. The final, chilling lines leave the reader questioning how much progress has truly been made.