I usually don’t enjoy poems, but each poem from Natasha Trethewey’s collection I found particularly captivating. In this book, there are a variety of poems inspired by photographs of E.J. Bellocq. The book explores the life of a mixed-race prostitute named Ophelia in New Orleans during the early 1900’s. The poems focus on the themes of identity, race, and complexities of Ophelia’s experiences.
One excerpt that particularly stood out to me states, “she’s no longer listening; she’s forgotten he’s there.” I found this line interesting because it captures a moment of detachment. It portrays a sense of distance between the two individuals, where one becomes lost in their own thoughts and disregards the other. It creates a feeling of isolation and highlights the complexities of relationships and disconnection that can occur.
Overall, this book provides a unique perspective on the historical/social context of early 1900s New Orleans. The poems explore the challenges Ophelia faced due to her race and I thought it was a very captivating read.