Who Makes the Journey by Cathy Song is a poignant and reflective poem that delves into the complexities of identity, heritage, and the journey of self-discovery. The poem explores the emotional and psychological journey of an individual who grapples with their cultural roots and the expectations placed upon them by their family and society.
The poem begins with the question, “Who makes the journey?” This question sets the stage for the exploration of the protagonist’s internal conflict. Cathy Song uses vivid imagery and rich symbolism to convey the struggle of the individual who is torn between their cultural heritage and the desire to forge their own path. The journey, as depicted in the poem, is not just a physical one but also a spiritual and emotional one.
In the first stanza, Song describes the protagonist as a “child of two worlds,” suggesting a duality that is inherent in their identity. The imagery of the “river” and the “mountain” represents the opposing forces that shape the individual’s journey. The river symbolizes the fluidity and adaptability of the protagonist’s cultural heritage, while the mountain represents the rigid and unyielding expectations of their family and society.
As the poem progresses, Song delves deeper into the protagonist’s internal conflict. The individual is caught between the desire to embrace their cultural roots and the need to assert their own identity. This tension is beautifully captured in the line, “I am both the river and the mountain, / Both the wind and the storm.” This line emphasizes the duality of the protagonist’s identity and the struggle to reconcile the two halves of their being.
The poem also explores the theme of generational conflict. The protagonist is haunted by the ghosts of their ancestors, who are represented by the “old people” in the poem. These ancestors are portrayed as figures of wisdom and strength, but they also embody the constraints and limitations of the past. The protagonist is caught in a web of expectations and traditions that they must navigate while trying to forge their own path.
In the final stanza, Song concludes with the powerful line, “I am the journey.” This line signifies the protagonist’s ultimate realization that their identity is not defined by their cultural heritage or the expectations of others, but by their own experiences and choices. The journey, as the poem suggests, is an ongoing process of self-discovery and growth.
In conclusion, “Who Makes the Journey” by Cathy Song is a compelling exploration of identity, heritage, and the journey of self-discovery. The poem’s vivid imagery and rich symbolism make it a poignant and reflective piece that resonates with readers on a deeply personal level. Through the protagonist’s journey, Song invites us to consider our own identities and the complex relationships we have with our cultural roots and the expectations placed upon us by society.