“A Litany for Survival” by Audre Lorde: A Critical Analysis

For those of us who live at the shoreline

standing upon the constant edges of decision

crucial and alone

for those of us who cannot indulge

the passing dreams of choice

who love in doorways coming and going

in the hours between dawns

looking inward and outward

at once before and after

seeking a now that can breed

futures

like bread in our children’s mouths

so their dreams will not reflect

the death of ours;

For those of us

who were imprinted with fear

like a faint line in the center of our foreheads

learning to be afraid with our mother’s milk

for by this weapon

this illusion of some safety to be found

the heavy-footed hoped to silence us

For all of us

this instant and this triumph

We were never meant to survive.

And when the sun rises we are afraid

it might not remain

when the sun sets we are afraid

it might not rise in the morning

when our stomachs are full we are afraid

of indigestion

when our stomachs are empty we are afraid

we may never eat again

when we are loved we are afraid

love will vanish

when we are alone we are afraid

love will never return

and when we speak we are afraid

our words will not be heard

nor welcomed

but when we are silent

we are still afraid

So it is better to speak

remembering

we were never meant to survive.

·       Fear and Survival: Fear is a pervasive theme throughout “A Litany for Survival.” Lorde illustrates the constant fear that haunts marginalized individuals, shaping their lives and decisions. From the beginning, she speaks of those who live “at the shoreline” and on the “edges of decision,” emphasizing the precariousness of their existence. Fear is described as something ingrained from birth, “imprinted with fear / like a faint line in the center of our foreheads.” This fear is not just a reaction to immediate threats but a deep-seated, inherited condition, highlighting how it has been passed down through generations. Despite this omnipresent fear, the poem suggests that survival is an act of defiance, as those who were “never meant to survive” continue to do so against all odds.

·       Marginalization and Isolation: Lorde vividly portrays the isolation experienced by those living on the margins of society. The metaphor of living “at the shoreline” conveys a sense of being on the boundary, neither fully in one place nor another, always on the brink of something. This position of marginalization forces individuals to make “constant edges of decision,” often without support or the luxury of choice. The poem’s imagery of “loving in doorways” and existing “in the hours between dawns” further emphasizes the transitory and unstable nature of their lives. This theme of marginalization underscores the loneliness and the constant state of flux that characterizes the lives of the oppressed.

·       Voice and Silence: The theme of voice versus silence is central to the poem’s message. Lorde explores the fear associated with both speaking out and remaining silent. The poem suggests that silence is not a refuge from fear, as “when we are silent / we are still afraid.” Instead, it posits that speaking out, despite the fear of not being heard or welcomed, is a necessary act of resistance. The final stanza asserts that “it is better to speak / remembering / we were never meant to survive,” highlighting the power of voice as a tool for survival and defiance. This theme emphasizes the importance of self-expression and the reclaiming of agency in the face of oppression.

·       Hope and Resistance: Despite the heavy themes of fear and marginalization, the poem also carries a message of hope and resistance. Lorde acknowledges the oppressive forces that seek to silence and erase marginalized voices, but she also celebrates the resilience of those who continue to survive. The repetition of “we were never meant to survive” serves as a reminder of the systemic nature of this oppression, but it also becomes a rallying cry for resistance. By choosing to speak and survive, the marginalized defy the expectations of those who seek to silence them. The poem ultimately suggests that hope lies in the act of resistance, in the refusal to be silenced, and in the determination to endure.

·       How does Lorde use repetition and rhythm to enhance the poem’s impact?

• Lorde’s skillful use of repetition and rhythm in “A Litany for Survival” creates a powerful and haunting effect. The constant repetition of phrases, such as “when the sun rises we are afraid,” reinforces the pervasive nature of fear and anxiety experienced by the speaker. This repetition creates a hypnotic quality, drawing the reader into the poem’s emotional world. Additionally, the rhythmic structure of the poem contributes to its emotional impact, making it more memorable and impactful. The use of anaphora, where words or phrases are repeated at the beginning of successive sentences or clauses, further enhances the poem’s rhythmic quality and emphasizes the speaker’s emotional state.

·       What is the significance of the line “We were never meant to survive”?

• The line “We were never meant to survive” serves as a central theme in Lorde’s poem, encapsulating the experiences of marginalized individuals who are often expected to fail. By stating this, Lorde challenges societal expectations and reinforces the idea that despite overwhelming odds, survival is possible. This line also suggests a defiance against oppressive forces that seek to silence and marginalize certain groups. It is a statement of resistance and a refusal to accept a predetermined fate.

·       How does Lorde explore the intersection of personal and societal struggles in the poem?

• Lorde deftly explores the intersection of personal and societal struggles in “A Litany for Survival.” She personalizes the experiences of fear and oppression, while also acknowledging the broader societal forces that contribute to these challenges. The poem’s focus on the speaker’s internal struggles is interwoven with references to systemic injustices, such as the historical silencing of marginalized voices. This intersectional approach allows Lorde to highlight the interconnectedness of individual and collective experiences, demonstrating how personal struggles are often rooted in larger societal issues.

·       What is the role of fear in the poem, and how does Lorde portray it?

• Fear plays a central role in “A Litany for Survival,” permeating every aspect of the speaker’s life. Lorde portrays fear as a constant companion, a pervasive force that cannot be easily overcome. The poem’s repetitive structure and the constant references to fear emphasize its overwhelming presence. Lorde suggests that fear is not only a personal emotion but also a societal construct, used to control and oppress marginalized groups. By exploring the psychological and societal dimensions of fear, Lorde offers a nuanced understanding of its impact on individuals and communities.

·       How does the poem’s ending contribute to its overall message?

• The poem’s ending provides a powerful and defiant conclusion, reinforcing the message of resilience and survival. By repeating the line “we were never meant to survive,” Lorde emphasizes the idea that despite the odds, survival is possible. The final lines suggest a sense of empowerment and a determination to overcome fear and oppression. The ending offers a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness, inspiring readers to challenge societal expectations and strive for a better future.