Poem Analysis - Son To Mother

Introduction: A Quiet Fury

Maya Angelou's "Son to Mother" is a powerful poem of restrained anger and quiet defiance. It speaks of a son's defense of his mother against unspecified accusations. The tone begins with a measured denial of violence and exploitation, gradually building to a potent declaration of intent. While the poem simmers with a controlled rage, it is ultimately an affirmation of the bond between mother and son, and a promise to protect her honor.

The Denial of Destructive Power: Rejecting Roles of Oppression

The poem opens with a strong rejection of actions associated with historical oppression and violence. The speaker declares, "I start no / wars, raining poison / on cathedrals," directly contrasting himself with those who perpetrate such acts. The subsequent image of "melting Stars of David / into golden faucets / to be lighted by lamps / shaded by human skin" is particularly chilling. It evokes the horrors of the Holocaust and the exploitation of Jewish people during that era. The speaker firmly dissociates himself from such barbarity, establishing a moral high ground. Similarly, the denial of sending "missionaries beyond my / borders, / to plunder secrets / and barter souls" rejects the legacy of colonialism and cultural exploitation. This initial denial is not simply pacifism; it is a rejection of systems of power and domination.

Theme of Loyalty and Defense: Blood is Thicker Than Water

The central theme of the poem is the unbreakable bond between mother and son, and the lengths to which the son will go to defend his mother's reputation. The accusations made against the mother – "They / say you took my manhood, / Momma" – are left vague, but their impact is clear. The speaker's response is not to question his mother, but to offer her unwavering support. The invitation, "Come sit on my lap / and tell me," suggests a desire to comfort and reassure her, as well as to strategize together. The poem becomes a promise of vengeance, fueled by filial devotion. The line "what do you want me to say / to them, just / before I annihilate / their ignorance?" demonstrates his readiness to defend her honor and silence her detractors. The poem underscores the strength and resilience that can arise from familial love in the face of adversity.

Symbolism of Annihilation: Destroying Falsehood, Not People

The most potent image in the poem is the promise to "annihilate / their ignorance." The word "annihilate" carries connotations of complete destruction, but within the context of the poem, it's unlikely the speaker intends physical violence. Instead, "annihilation" should be interpreted as the complete and utter destruction of the lies and misconceptions surrounding his mother. He aims to dismantle the "ignorance" that fuels the accusations against her. This symbolic annihilation suggests a war of words and ideas, a battle for truth and justice. It's a forceful statement about the power of knowledge and understanding to overcome prejudice and falsehoods.

Conclusion: A Promise of Protection and Truth

"Son to Mother" is a deeply moving poem that explores themes of loyalty, defense, and the rejection of destructive power. The speaker's initial denial of violence and exploitation sets the stage for his fierce protection of his mother. While the accusations against her remain unspecified, the poem's power lies in the son's unwavering support and his promise to "annihilate / their ignorance." Ultimately, the poem is a testament to the enduring strength of the maternal bond and the power of truth to overcome falsehoods, leaving us to ponder the unspoken accusations and the full extent of the son’s dedication.