Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices

*Image from goodreads.com

A. Bibliographic Data: Myers, Walter Dean. Here in Harlem: Poems in Many Voices. New York: Holiday House, 2004. ISBN 0823418537

B. Critical Analysis: Plot Summary: This is the captivating collection of voices and messages that in some way shape or form made an impression on Walter Dean Myers during his time in Harlem. Growing up in Harlem was sure to have its hard times, but I believe that every hard time was given to us to ensure the sweeter times are that much sweeter. In this book, Myers sheds a beautiful light on the different people that made Harlem the home that it was to him, while recognizing the struggles so many have faced. This story is sure to touch everyone, provoke rich emotions and encourage everyone to acknowledge those around us that are responsible for making us who we are.

Appeal: Above all, this book provides readers with a large amount of insight. Not only into life in Harlem, but into the African American culture as well. Because of the level of vocabulary and complexity of ideas, I would suggest this book for middle school grades. At the right age, students will be able to clearly understand and identify with certain characters, experiences, or stories…all of which increase this book’s appeal. Students’ imaginations will also be sparked and will be intrigued by these characters and the message of Myers.

Meaning: These poems were created with certain, real-life people in mind. They were people that Myers talked to, saw on the street, and overheard in church. They were friends and family members. This makes these poems concrete in their relation to real life people and experiences. Their words though, and themes are more abstract and can be applied to different, unrelated situations. In this case, Myers is utilizing the best of both worlds- abstract and concrete!

Rhythm and Sound: There is very little rhyming that takes place within this book. Instead, Myers relies mostly on line breaks and spacing to create a certain rhythm when reading his poems. This may be different for some readers and will call for special attention on how to properly read poetry aloud, but it will be worth it. Readers will be able to read and listen to the poems for their words, rather than getting caught up in rhyming and sing-song patterns. I feel the lack of rhymes works great with these particular poems. Myers does use repetition and the occasional onomatopoeia.

Language: Walter Dean Myers has a beautiful way with words. His ability to use metaphors and similes will both move and amaze readers (I know it did with me). Personification is also high in number as different objects are given life. The language will be clear enough for readers to understand but will do an amazing job of simultaneously presenting them with new ways for putting words together, grouping ideas, and using language devices.

Imagery: I think every sense is supported at some point during this book. Though the references aren’t overly high in number, Myers does manage to spark some serious images through his language and vocabulary. There is no doubt that readers will be able to create full images of each and every character presented in the book, along with personality traits that would paint an even clearer picture.

Emotional Impact: We all love being home and whether we get to live in that place on a daily basis or not, no matter what- home will always be there. With this book, we get to see what makes Harlem “home” for Myers. We meet the people and hear the voices that make a community far more than the geographical placement on a map. This is something we can all relate to; it’s also something we will all have feelings for. For these reasons, this book has a great ability to emotionally impact readers and spark feelings and memories. You’ll laugh along with the readers, nod your head in agreement, and may even tear up at the similarities between Harlem and your own home. Either way, this is sure to tug at your heart strings.

Layout and Organization: Here in Harlem begins with a bonus poem written right on the cover page of the book. It’s a beautiful poem written in the perspective of a thirty three year old English teacher. From there, readers will see the table of contents followed by an introduction and the first of six testimonies provided by “Clara Brown”. From there the poems begin. At first glance, the book appears to be longer in length; in actuality though, the poems are very appropriate in length. Though no illustrator was used, Myers included photographs that also influenced him in some way. This is a great touch and gives readers an added bonus! The edges of the pages are frayed to give readers the impression that it’s an older book, full of history. This too was a nice touch and shows that Myers put great thought into the entire creation of this book.

C. Example: Poem:

Clara Brown’s Testimony

Part 1

Everybody’s asking me why I’m always talking

about Harlem. Well, child, to me, Harlem is

like an old friend. Sometimes she won’t do

right, or do exactly what you want her to do.

Sometimes she’s needy when you don’t have

anything extra to be giving. But you know

what to expect from a real friend, and that’s

what Harlem has been to me.

            And if you give to Harlem, it always finds

a way to give back. When I hear music coming

from the apartment windows or from the doors

of a storefront church, I know that’s Harlem

giving me a gift. And it’s music that’s more than

just head music. It’s music my soul remembers

from way past what my brain knows about.

I love the people of Harlem, too. Yes, that’s

right, all of them. Because one by one they may

not be that much. But, honey, all together,

they’re Harlem, and you can’t ask for more

than that.

Introduction: I would begin by activating students’ prior knowledge. I would do this by locating Harlem on a map and showing students where the city is, asking them what Harlem brings to mind, if they’ve ever visited Harlem, what they know about Harlem etc. From there, I would share the poem twice to allow students plenty of opportunity to hear and digest the words. Class discussion would then be held in which students would reflect on the poem and whether or not their impression of Harlem has changed.   

Ideas for Sharing: I think this poem would be a great addition to Black History Month. The poems are so rich with the African American culture that each and every poem would provide great insight for students. These poems can stand alone so I see them being read during Poetry Breaks, in the morning to get the day started, or as a time-filler in between lessons. There’s always enough time for poetry!