Problem
Ahmed uses symbolism Download symbolism throughout the poem.
Look at the lines about her new shoes in the first encounter (at seven) and the lines about the jewelry box in the second encounter (at twelve). Consider what happens to these items after the encounters.
I. Pick one of the items - the shoes or the jewelry box - and briefly explain what you think it represents. How does Ahmed use the item as a symbol? What does it symbolize?
This poem is written in second person, until the last two lines when the speaker switches to first person.
II. Consider the poet's intent in this choice. What is the effect of the poem being written in second person? What impact does the poem have by using "you" instead of "I" to describe these encounters?
This poem depicts three different incidents in which the speaker experiences discrimination based on race and religion. The incidents occur when the speaker is seven (with the neighbor), twelve (with the store clerk) and a young adult (at airport security). Consider the idea of literature as a mirror that reflects and validates the reader's experience.
III. How would you describe the speaker at the end of the poem? What might readers who have faced similar discrimination take away from this poem?
Read Samira Ahmed's young adult narrative poem, "Are You the Good Kind of Muslim?"