Poem Analysis - We Had Him

A Collective Lament: Introduction

Maya Angelou's "We Had Him" is a poignant elegy, a collective expression of grief and remembrance for Michael Jackson. The poem moves from a state of shock and disorientation to a gradual acceptance and celebration of the artist's life and legacy. The initial tone is one of stunned disbelief, underscored by a sense of profound loss, which then transitions into one of gratitude and shared mourning, culminating in a reaffirmation of connection and unity. The poem serves as both a lament and a tribute, acknowledging the void left by Jackson's passing while simultaneously celebrating the joy and inspiration he brought to the world.

Historical Echoes and Universal Loss

While the poem explicitly mourns Michael Jackson, it implicitly touches upon broader themes of loss and the fragility of life. Angelou, having witnessed and written extensively about the Civil Rights Movement and various social struggles, brings a nuanced understanding of collective grief to this poem. The sheer global scale of mourning mentioned – from Tokyo to Ghana to Birmingham – highlights Jackson's universal appeal and the unifying power of art. This suggests that the poem also speaks to the shared human experience of loss that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries.

The Ephemeral Nature of Greatness

One of the central themes is the fleeting nature of brilliance and the pain of unexpected loss. The opening lines, "Beloveds, now we know that we know nothing," emphasize the disorientation and helplessness felt in the face of death. The image of a "bright and shining star" slipping away "like a puff of summer wind" illustrates the sudden and irreversible departure of someone extraordinary. This sense of the ephemeral is reinforced by the lines about time stopping: "No clocks can tell our time and no oceans can rush our tides." These powerful images highlight the profound impact of Jackson's death on the collective consciousness, suggesting that his absence has disrupted the natural order of things.

Acknowledging Shared Grief and Finding Solace in Community

The poem confronts the theme of isolation amidst communal grieving. Despite being "many," each person experiences the loss as "achingly alone / Piercingly alone." This acknowledgment of individual grief within a shared experience is crucial. However, Angelou emphasizes that "only when we confess our confusion / can we remember that he was a gift to us and we did have him." This confession and remembrance become a source of solace, a way to bridge the gap of loneliness. The repetition of "We had him" serves as a mantra, a reminder of the privilege of witnessing Jackson's artistry and a means of finding comfort in shared memory.

Symbols of Light and Connection: A Legacy Endures

Light and unity are recurring symbols. Jackson is initially presented as a "bright and shining star," an image of brilliance and inspiration. This symbol of light extends to his creativity, which he trailed "in abundance." The concluding line, "And we are the world," reaffirms a sense of global connection and unity, directly referencing one of Jackson's most famous songs and underscoring his message of inclusivity. This ending implies that Jackson's legacy lives on in the collective spirit and actions of his fans, transforming the initial grief into a renewed commitment to his ideals.

A Final Bow: The Enduring Impact

"We Had Him" is more than just a eulogy; it's a testament to the enduring power of art and the shared human experience of loss and remembrance. Angelou skillfully navigates the complexities of grief, moving from shock and isolation to a collective celebration of Michael Jackson's life and legacy. The poem ultimately offers a message of hope and connection, reminding us that even in the face of profound loss, we can find solace in shared memories and a renewed commitment to the values embodied by those we have lost. Perhaps, the poem suggests that his influence ensures that while the star may have faded, its light continues to illuminate the world.