hi im working on same poem

ice storm; the hill
a pyramid of black crystal
down with the cars
slide like phosphorescent beetles
while I, walking backwards in obedience
to the wind, am possessed
of the fearful knowledge
my compatriots share
but almost never utter:
this is a country
where a man can die
simply from being
caught outside.

is poet talking to all people, or just fellow canadians?

It can be addressed to all people, but the poet probably intended that his audience were Canadians.

ok thanks a lot

You're very welcome.

In order to understand whether the poet is talking to all people or just fellow Canadians, we can analyze the poem and interpret its meaning.

The poem describes an ice storm, where the poet observes the effects of the storm on a hill. The imagery of a "pyramid of black crystal" and cars sliding like "phosphorescent beetles" suggests a dangerous and treacherous environment. The poet remarks that they are walking backwards in obedience to the wind, suggesting a sense of vulnerability and helplessness.

The line that gives us a clue about the intended audience is: "this is a country where a man can die simply from being caught outside." This line indicates that the poet is referring to a specific country, implying that the message is more directed towards those who are familiar with living in that country.

In this context, it is likely that the poet is addressing the experiences and concerns of fellow Canadians. The poem captures the harshness and dangers of an ice storm, which is a phenomenon that Canadians, particularly those in regions with cold winters, are more accustomed to. The sense of shared knowledge and unspoken understanding of these dangers suggests a connection with the poet's compatriots, who are likely fellow Canadians.

However, it is important to note that poetry can be subjective, and different interpretations are possible. Therefore, it's also possible to view the poem as a broader commentary on the vulnerability of human beings in the face of nature's power, which could resonate with a wider international audience.