James Apo Assignment 3

1.) In the poem The Harlem Dancer, Claude McKay creates a lackadaisical yet chaotic tone, where he feels invigorated in the mystical club, and his use of the poetic device imagery allows him (and us) to get the vibe that the scene is coming to life. He mentions “light gauze hanging loose about her form,” which signifies that he notices the singer and has appreciation for her beauty and "proudly-swaying palm," and she too for his sight - maybe because he is drunk, and does not have good vision -  which is a peaceful connection for two important elements of the situation; the performer and the audience. When he mentions “passing through a storm, ” it enhances the chaotic yet empowered feel of the club. His mention of “swarthy neck black, shiny curls” further emphasizes the beauty of the singer, a motif that connects appearance and substance when it comes to setting and who is involved in it.  He also describes the sound of "blended flutes" being "Blown by black players upon a picnic day” and the images of a segregated minority (during that time) in a bright picnic setting outside provides a contrast of dark and light, expanding upon the chaotic nature of a club and its inhabitants.

2.) Although I wouldn't consider myself much of an artist, I definitely connect the best with the first quote by Amy Lowell. I might not be an artist, but that does not mean I can not create art. Similarly to how most people in the world are not painters by profession, those same 'amateurs' will most likely have to paint at one point or another in their life, meaning they technically can paint. Art is up to the individual, and if that person wants to just naturally reflect who they are in what they do and say, then the more power to them. When you create art you find yourself, and learn how what you made affected your surroundings and how that subsequently impacted you and your life. It is quite a deep topic, but the further you dig, the more effectively you can pour your emotions out, and feel satisfied all in all. Art can and will ever cement how you felt, feel, and/or will feel about something/someone, and that eternity of documentation offers a sanctuary for anyone struggling to find acceptance or purpose in the world.