How Did El General Mother Died Parsley by Rita Dove is a poignant and evocative poem that delves into the complexities of family, loss, and memory. Through a series of vivid images and metaphors, Dove explores the intricate relationship between the narrator and her grandmother, El General, as well as the profound impact of her mother’s death on the family dynamics.
The poem begins with a haunting question: “How did El General mother died parsley?” This question serves as a catalyst for the narrator’s reflection on her grandmother’s life and the mysterious circumstances surrounding her mother’s death. Dove employs the use of parsley, a common herb with symbolic meanings, to represent the fragility and resilience of life.
In the subsequent lines, Dove paints a vivid picture of El General’s life, highlighting her strength and independence. She describes El General as a “matriarch” who “brought up her children with a will,” and who “fought like a warrior.” This portrayal emphasizes the importance of El General’s role in the family, and her ability to overcome adversity.
As the poem progresses, Dove shifts her focus to the narrator’s own experiences with her grandmother. She writes, “I remember the smell of parsley / In her hands, like the scent of the earth,” illustrating the deep connection between the narrator and El General. The mention of parsley once again underscores the herb’s significance, as it symbolizes both life and death.
The poem then delves into the mysterious circumstances of El General’s mother’s death. Dove uses the metaphor of parsley to convey the idea that the death was both unexpected and inevitable. She writes, “How did El General mother died parsley? / Like a leaf falling from a tree, without a sound,” evoking a sense of sorrow and loss. This imagery suggests that the death was a natural part of life, yet still deeply sorrowful.
As the poem reaches its climax, Dove reflects on the impact of her mother’s death on the family. She writes, “And now, we are left with memories / Of a woman who loved us, but is gone,” highlighting the pain of loss and the enduring power of memory. The mention of parsley once again serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life, and the importance of cherishing the moments we have with loved ones.
In conclusion, “How Did El General Mother Died Parsley” by Rita Dove is a beautifully crafted poem that explores the complexities of family, loss, and memory. Through the use of vivid imagery and metaphors, Dove conveys the profound impact of her mother’s death on the family dynamics, and the enduring bond between the narrator and her grandmother. The poem serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, and the power of love and memory to heal and connect us.
