Amanda Gorman, the young poet who captivated the nation with her stirring performance at President Joe Biden's inauguration in 2021, returned to the national political stage on the third night of the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago. Her new poem, "This Sacred Scene," was a powerful call for unity and hope, delivered with the same eloquence and passion that made her a global sensation.
Gorman’s performance was not simply a poetic flourish; it was a strategic choice by the Democratic Party to tap into the power of her words and the resonance of her message. Her poem, written in support of Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, offered a glimpse into her creative process and the themes that guided her composition.
A Poem Inspired by History and Hope
Gorman, a Californian and woman of color, expressed her personal excitement about Harris's historic candidacy. She revealed that she initially envisioned a poem for Biden's re-election, but scrapped it when Harris became the nominee. The shift in the presidential race inspired a new direction for her poem, one that focused on the atmosphere of change and unity that Harris embodies.
Gorman described the birth of "This Sacred Scene" as a "tono-logy," a sense of color and flavor that she could visualize even without words. As she watched the political landscape unfold, she saw a need for a poem that celebrated the possibility of a Black-Indian woman becoming president.
A Call for Unity and Transcending Partisanship
"I think there's something hallowed about that," she said, reflecting on the Democratic Convention’s significance. "I think there's something special and also old about that that digs to the roots of who we are as human beings. I wanted to speak to that importance of unity which, for me, transcends party."
The poem, she explained, was not a political endorsement but a celebration of unity and shared values. "The scene is the moment, it's the history, it's the precedence, the future, it's what we're coming from and what we're building."
Inspired by the View from Space
Gorman’s inspiration for the poem came from an unexpected source: a conversation with astronaut Mike Barratt, who shared his experience watching Earth from the International Space Station.
"He showed me the view of the planet from the porthole and how they've been watching Earth as they pass by in their shuttle. That was so inspiring, because at that moment, I had started over from scratch on my poem, when I had no idea what to write, especially at a time that feels so divisive," she said. "But having that moment for him to literally watch Planet Earth from space left such a huge impact on me, and I think in the language of the poem, you'll see that shine through."
A Call to Action and a Vision of the Future
Gorman’s poem resonated deeply with the DNC audience, reminding them of the importance of unity and the possibility of a better future. Her words, delivered with grace and passion, served as a powerful reminder of the role poetry can play in shaping our understanding of the world and inspiring us to strive for a better future.
Gorman's performance was more than just a poetic recitation. It was a testament to the power of words, the beauty of diversity, and the importance of hope in times of uncertainty. Her poem, “This Sacred Scene,” stood as a beacon of unity, urging us to embrace the values that bind us together and to believe in the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
A Look Back and a Look Forward
The Democratic National Convention, like any political event, is a stage for both reflection and anticipation. While Gorman's poem celebrated the historical significance of Harris's candidacy, it also looked toward a future where unity and shared values are paramount. Her message, resonating with the audience at the convention and beyond, serves as a call to action, urging us to not only believe in the American dream, but to be worthy of it.
Fashion as a Symbolic Statement
Gorman's presence at the DNC extended beyond her poetry, showcasing a thoughtful approach to fashion as well. While she revealed she wouldn't be wearing Prada, as she did at Biden's inauguration, she hinted at a symbolic color choice, highlighting a deliberate approach to expressing her message through her attire.
This conscious decision to make a statement with her clothing underscores Gorman's awareness of the power of imagery and how it can amplify her message. It also speaks to her commitment to using all facets of her platform to advocate for a more just and equitable world.
Gorman's poem, “This Sacred Scene,” along with her bold fashion choices, cemented her role as a powerful voice for change and a symbol of hope in a world that needs it now more than ever.
