Ask AI: Don Mattera (1935 - 2022) Let the children decide Poetry analysis

Certainly! "Let the children decide" is an evocative poem by Don Mattera, reflecting profound themes related to freedom, the power of the younger generation, and possibly the socio-political landscape during his life. Here's a close analysis to understand its nuances: ### Poem Summary: "Let the children decide" speaks to the desire for younger generations to have the autonomy to shape their own future, free from the constraints and prejudices inherited from the past. ### Themes: 1. **Freedom and Autonomy:** The poem emphasizes the importance of allowing children to make their own choices. This theme suggests a departure from oppressive systems and the hope for a more liberated future. 2. **Generational Transition:** Mattera highlights the significant role that children and young minds will play in shaping tomorrow. This is a call for a generational shift, trusting the youth to pave a new path. 3. **Hope and Future:** There's an inherent optimism in the poem, rooted in the belief that children possess the potential to create a fairer, more just world. 4. **Critique of Current Systems:** Implicit in the poem is a critique of existing societal structures that might stifle creativity and freedom. By advocating for children to decide, Mattera underscores the inadequacy of the inherited systems. ### Language and Style: - **Simple yet Powerful Diction:** Mattera uses accessible language, making the poem easily relatable while packing it with powerful emotion and intent. - **Repetitive Structures:** The use of repetition underscores key messages and reinforces the importance of his plea. - **Imagery and Symbolism:** Children symbolize purity and potential, while the act of deciding represents freedom and agency. ### Historical Context: Mattera's life spanned significant periods of South African history, including apartheid and its aftermath. This context informs the poem's deeper layers: - **Apartheid and Liberation:** The plea to let children decide can be seen as a metaphor for breaking free from the oppressive regime of apartheid and giving the new generation the chance to lead towards a more equitable society. ### Analysis of Key Lines: While the entire poem isn't provided, key lines often include repetitive appeals such as: - **"Let the children decide":** This refrain underscores trust in the new generation’s judgment and wisdom. - **“The world they want to live in”:** Highlights the agency of children to craft their own environments, contrasting with the legacy of tumultuous systems. ### Conclusion: "Let the children decide" serves both as a plea and a declaration of hope. Mattera’s work is profoundly rooted in the belief that progress and justice are inextricable from the empowerment of youth. By advocating for children's ability to choose, he also critiques the failings of past generations and systems, suggesting that genuine change can only come through new, untainted perspectives. This poem is both a reflection of Don Mattera's personal experiences in a tumultuous socio-political environment and a universal message of hope and trust in the potential of future generations.

Title: Let The Children Decide Poet: Don Mattera 1. Overview: Don Mattera's poem "Let the Children Decide" is a profound plea that emphasizes the importance of listening to the younger generation. The poem explores the themes of youth, wisdom, freedom of choice, and the future. Mattera, a seasoned anti-Apartheid activist and wordsmith from South Africa, often infused his socio-political views into his works. This poem is no exception. 2. Form and Structure: This poem might not follow a rigid structure or rhyme scheme like traditional poetry. It's important to look at how the poet has organized their thoughts and the flow of the poem to fully understand it. 3. Language and Imagery: Much of the poem's power comes from the vivid and emotionally charged language that Mattera uses. He might call upon strong images to convey the need for change and the potential that the younger generation carries for attaining that change. 4. Themes: a. Youth and Wisdom: Despite their age, Mattera suggests that children possess a unique form of wisdom and understanding which should not be ignored. By letting them decide, the society might arrive at a more unprejudiced and unbiased direction. b. Freedom of Choice: The poem clearly calls for allowing children to decide their destiny, placing emphasis on their independence and advocating for their freedom of choice. c. Future: With a clear forward-looking perspective, the poem recognizes the role of the younger generation in shaping the future of society. 5. Techniques: Look for repetition, metaphors, similes, and other rhetorical devices that Don Mattera may have used to enhance his message. Such elements can magnify the intensity of the poem and give it a more profound impact. 6. Message: Mattera seems to be encouraging empowerment, free will and giving voice to the often sidelined - the children. And in doing so, he advocates for change for a better future. Remember, poetry analysis is personal and subjective. It's encouraged to form your own understanding and interpretation based on how you perceive the poem. Don't hesitate to immerse yourself in the poem and let its message resonate with you.