From the poem On the Pulse of Morning say's:
"Do not be wedded forever To fear, yoked eternally To brutishness."
I understand "Do not be wedded forever To fear" or in other words don't let fear get to you but what about "yoked eternally To brutishness" What does that part mean?
They are yoked “united” to cruelness and brutalness if they do not get rid of fear?
Make sure you are clear on the meanings of "yoked" and "brutishness."
http://www.dictionary.com
Let us know what you decide.
cruelty and brutality, yes
OK Thankyou Writeacher
You're welcome.
In the context of the poem "On the Pulse of Morning" by Maya Angelou, the line "Do not be wedded forever To fear, yoked eternally To brutishness" carries a metaphorical meaning. To understand the phrase "yoked eternally To brutishness," we need to break it down.
First, let's talk about the term "yoked." In its literal sense, a yoke is a wooden crosspiece placed over the necks of two animals, like oxen or horses, to enable them to work together and move in the same direction. Metaphorically, being yoked refers to being bound or connected to something.
Now, let's understand the word "brutishness." It is derived from the word "brute," which typically means an animal lacking intelligence or reason. In this context, "brutishness" represents primitive, violent, or inhumane behavior.
Putting it all together, the phrase "yoked eternally To brutishness" suggests being permanently connected or bound to a state of inhumanity or savagery. It highlights the idea of being trapped or confined to a life ruled by base instincts and lacking compassion, kindness, or higher values.
In Maya Angelou's poem, this line speaks against the perpetuation of fear and the continuation of violent or cruel behaviors. It advocates for breaking free from these negative aspects and embracing love, understanding, and empathy instead.