Safia Elhillo’s poem, “To Make Use of Water,” delves into the complexities of identity, language, and the immigrant experience. Through vivid imagery and poignant reflections, Elhillo captures the struggle of navigating multiple cultures and the longing for a sense of belonging.
Elhillo begins by highlighting the confusion and loss associated with language. She describes forgetting the Arabic word for “economy” and the English word for “عسل” (honey), illustrating the disconnection from both her native and adopted languages. This linguistic struggle symbolizes a broader identity crisis, where neither language fully encapsulates her experience.
The poem further explores cultural nuances, particularly the overwhelming politeness that pervades her homeland. Elhillo notes how even doctors are unable to speak plainly, a metaphor for the societal constraints that prevent open communication. Her grandfather’s glaucoma, described in Arabic as “the white water,” underscores the limitations of language in conveying reality.
Elhillo expresses a deep yearning to return home, using metaphors of dilution and drowning to convey her emotional turmoil. The desire to dissolve into familiar surroundings contrasts with the harsh reality that many never make it back or across borders. This longing is intensified by the privileges and safety afforded by her American passport, which simultaneously offers security and alienation.
The poem concludes with a powerful reflection on the sacrifices made to reach a new land. Elhillo questions whether those who benefit from these sacrifices truly comprehend the losses endured. This introspection invites readers to consider the complexities of gratitude and homesickness within the immigrant experience.
In “To Make Use of Water,” Safia Elhillo masterfully weaves together themes of language, identity, and belonging. Her evocative imagery and introspective narrative invite readers to reflect on the multifaceted nature of the immigrant journey, making the poem both engaging and thought-provoking.
Reflect on your own experiences with language. Write a journal entry about a time when you struggled with language, whether it was learning a new language, translating for someone, or feeling disconnected from your native language. How did this experience affect your sense of identity?
In small groups, discuss the cultural nuances mentioned in the poem, such as the overwhelming politeness and the metaphor of “the white water.” How do these cultural elements compare to those in your own culture? Share your thoughts and listen to others’ experiences to gain a broader perspective.
Create your own metaphors to describe complex emotions or experiences related to identity and language. Use vivid imagery similar to Elhillo’s “dilution and drowning” metaphors. Share your metaphors with the class and explain the emotions or experiences they represent.
Role-play a scenario where you are an immigrant navigating a new culture and language. Consider the challenges and emotions you might face. After the role-play, discuss how these experiences might shape one’s identity and sense of belonging.
Write an essay analyzing how Safia Elhillo uses language and imagery to convey the themes of identity, language, and belonging in “To Make Use of Water.” Use specific examples from the poem to support your analysis. Consider how these themes resonate with your own experiences or observations.
Identity – The characteristics, feelings, or beliefs that distinguish people from others. – In the novel, the protagonist embarks on a journey to discover her true identity amidst societal expectations.
Language – A system of communication used by a particular community or country. – The author uses rich and descriptive language to vividly portray the setting of the story.
Immigrant – A person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country. – The novel explores the challenges faced by an immigrant family adapting to a new culture.
Experience – Practical contact with and observation of facts or events. – The character’s experience in the war profoundly changes his outlook on life.
Belonging – The feeling of being accepted and comfortable in a place or group. – Throughout the book, the theme of belonging is explored as the characters seek acceptance in their community.
Struggle – A forceful or violent effort to get free of restraint or resist attack. – The protagonist’s internal struggle with her conscience is a central theme in the story.
Culture – The ideas, customs, and social behavior of a particular people or society. – The novel provides a deep insight into the culture of the indigenous people through its detailed narrative.
Sacrifice – An act of giving up something valued for the sake of something else regarded as more important or worthy. – The hero’s sacrifice for his family is a pivotal moment in the plot.
Loss – The state or feeling of grief when deprived of someone or something of value. – The poem poignantly captures the sense of loss felt by the narrator after the death of a loved one.
Nostalgia – A sentimental longing or wistful affection for the past. – The author’s use of nostalgia evokes a yearning for the simplicity of childhood days.
