“Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

“Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo was first published in 1990 in her collection, In Mad Love and War, evoking in readers a sense of connection to the natural world and a call for personal transformation. Harjo utilizes the eagle’s majestic flight as a symbol of both freedom and responsibility. The cyclical nature of the eagle’s movement reflects the ongoing flow of life, while its keen vision encourages readers to see the world with open hearts and minds. Through evocative language, Harjo invites readers to embrace a more holistic way of being, fostering kindness and respect for all things.

Text: “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

Annotations: “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

Line	Annotation
To pray you open your whole self	Encouragement to be fully present and open in prayer
To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon	Acknowledging the interconnectedness of all things
To one whole voice that is you	Embracing one’s authentic self
And know there is more	Recognizing the limitations of human perception
That you can’t see, can’t hear;	Acknowledging the mysteries beyond human senses
Can’t know except in moments	Moments of insight or revelation
Steadily growing, and in languages	Personal growth and understanding through various forms of expression
That aren’t always sound but other	Including non-verbal forms of communication and understanding
Circles of motion	Cycles and patterns in life and nature
Like eagle that Sunday morning	Introduction of the eagle as a symbol of spiritual growth and awareness
Over Salt River	Reference to a specific location, possibly significant to the poet
Circled in blue sky	The eagle soaring freely in the sky
In wind, swept our hearts clean	The eagle’s presence brings a sense of renewal and clarity
With sacred wings	The eagle’s wings represent protection, guidance, and spiritual growth
We see you, see ourselves and know	Recognition of the interconnectedness of all beings
That we must take the utmost care	Importance of respect, compassion, and responsibility
And kindness in all things	Treatment of others and the world with kindness and empathy
Breathe in, knowing we are made of	Awareness of our connection to nature and the world
All this, and breathe, knowing	Recognition of our place within the larger web of life
We are truly blessed because we	Gratitude for the gift of life
Were born, and die soon within a	Awareness of the cycle of life and death
True circle of motion	Acceptance of the natural order of life
Like eagle rounding out the morning	The eagle’s flight represents the beauty and wonder of life
Inside us	The eagle’s presence is within us, symbolizing our own spiritual growth and awareness
We pray that it will be done	Hope for a positive outcome or resolution
In beauty	Desire for harmony, balance, and beauty in all things
In beauty	Repetition emphasizes the importance of living in harmony and balance

Literary And Poetic Devices: “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

Device	Example from the poem	Explanation
Alliteration	“swept our hearts clean”	Repetition of the “s” sound for a musical effect
Amplification	“To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon”	Emphasizing the idea by adding more examples
Anaphora	“To…”, “And know…”, “We see…”, “Breathe in…”	Repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses
Assonance	“circles of motion”	Repetition of vowel sounds for a musical effect
Enjambment	“To one whole voice that is you. / And know there is more”	Carrying a sentence or phrase over to the next line without a pause
Epistrophe	“In beauty. / In beauty.”	Repetition of a word or phrase at the end of successive clauses
Hyperbole	“utmost care”	Exaggeration for emphasis
Imagery	“eagle that Sunday morning / Over Salt River. Circled in blue sky”	Vivid descriptions to create mental images
Inclusive language	“we”, “us”, “our”	Using language that includes the reader or speaker
Juxtaposition	“We are truly blessed because we / Were born, and die soon”	Placing two contrasting ideas side by side
Metaphor	“eagle…sacred wings”	Comparing two things without “like” or “as”
Personification	“eagle…circled in blue sky”	Attributing human qualities to non-human entities
Repetition	“To…”, “in beauty”	Repeating words or phrases for emphasis or unity
Rhyme	None	The poem does not use end rhymes
Simile	“Like eagle…”	Comparing two things using “like” or “as”
Symbolism	“eagle”	Using an object to represent an abstract idea or concept
Synecdoche	“sacred wings”	Using a part of something to represent the whole
Triadic structure	“To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon”	Using three elements to create a sense of completeness
Voice	“you”, “we”	Using first or second person to create a sense of intimacy or inclusivity
Wind metaphor	“In wind, swept our hearts clean”	Using wind to represent change or renewal

Themes: “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

1. Connection to Nature: In “Eagle Poem,” Harjo emphasizes the interconnectedness between humans and the natural world. The poem suggests that through prayer and opening oneself to the elements—sky, earth, sun, moon—one can feel a profound connection to the universe. For instance, the lines “To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon” highlight the poet’s invitation to commune with nature in its entirety, acknowledging its presence and significance in one’s life.

Additionally, the imagery of the eagle soaring over the Salt River symbolizes the majestic beauty and freedom of the natural world. The eagle, with its sacred wings, serves as a spiritual guide, reminding humans of their place within the circle of life.

• Spirituality and Prayer: The poem explores themes of spirituality and prayer as means of connecting with the divine and finding inner peace. Through prayer, one opens their “whole self” to the universe, transcending physical boundaries to reach a deeper understanding of existence. The repetition of “In beauty” at the end of the poem underscores the reverence and gratitude the speaker feels towards the divine order of the world.

Moreover, the eagle serves as a symbol of spirituality and guidance, as it circles overhead, cleansing the hearts of those below. The act of praying is depicted as a transformative experience that cleanses the soul and instills a sense of purpose and connection.

• Cycle of Life and Death: Harjo reflects on the cyclical nature of life and death, echoing the imagery of the eagle “rounding out the morning.” Just as the eagle completes its circular flight pattern, humans too are part of a larger cosmic cycle. The poet suggests that life is fleeting, yet beautiful, as humans are “born, and die soon within a true circle of motion.”

The poem encourages readers to embrace the transient nature of existence and find solace in the cyclical rhythms of the natural world. Through this acceptance, one can live with greater awareness and appreciation for the beauty inherent in life’s fleeting moments.

• Responsibility and Kindness: “Eagle Poem” also emphasizes the importance of responsibility and kindness towards all beings. The speaker implores readers to “take the utmost care and kindness in all things,” recognizing the interconnectedness of all life forms. This message aligns with Indigenous perspectives on stewardship of the earth and the need to live in harmony with nature.

By acknowledging our interconnectedness with the natural world, the poem calls for a sense of responsibility towards preserving and respecting the environment. Through acts of kindness and care, humans can honor the sacredness of life and contribute to the beauty of the world.

Literary Theories and “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

1. Ecocriticism: Ecocriticism examines literature through an environmental lens, focusing on the relationship between humans and the natural world. In “Eagle Poem,” Harjo explores the spiritual connection between humanity and nature, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship and the interconnectedness of all living beings. For example:
   • The lines “To pray you open your whole self / To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon” demonstrate the poet’s reverence for the elements of nature and the invitation to connect with them on a spiritual level.
   • The imagery of the eagle soaring “Over Salt River” symbolizes the harmony and beauty of the natural landscape, highlighting the significance of preserving such environments for future generations.
   • Through the motif of the “true circle of motion,” Harjo suggests that humans are an integral part of the cyclical rhythms of nature, emphasizing the need for ecological balance and respect for the earth.
2. Feminist Theory: Feminist theory examines literature through the lens of gender dynamics and power structures, often focusing on the experiences and perspectives of women. While “Eagle Poem” does not explicitly address gender issues, it embodies feminist principles through its celebration of spirituality, interconnectedness, and empowerment. Examples include:
   • The poem’s emphasis on the interconnectedness of all beings, regardless of gender, aligns with feminist ideals of inclusivity and equality.
   • The imagery of the eagle as a symbol of strength and freedom can be interpreted as a metaphor for female empowerment, challenging traditional gender stereotypes and norms.
   • Harjo’s portrayal of prayer as a transformative and empowering act suggests that spirituality can serve as a source of strength and agency for women, enabling them to assert their identities and connect with their inner selves.
3. Postcolonial Theory: Postcolonial theory examines literature through the lens of colonialism, imperialism, and the legacy of colonial oppression. While “Eagle Poem” does not directly address colonialism, it can be interpreted as a celebration of Indigenous culture and spirituality, reclaiming narratives that have been marginalized or silenced by colonial forces. Examples include:
   • The poem’s emphasis on the sacredness of nature and the importance of Indigenous spiritual traditions reflects a resistance to Western dominance and a reaffirmation of Indigenous cultural values.
   • The imagery of the eagle, a powerful symbol in many Indigenous cultures, serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of Indigenous peoples in the face of colonial oppression.
   • Through its invocation of prayer and reverence for the earth, “Eagle Poem” asserts the validity and significance of Indigenous ways of knowing and being, challenging dominant Western paradigms that prioritize materialism and exploitation of the natural world.

Critical Questions about “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

Question	Analysis	Poem Reference
1. How does the poem explore the relationship between the individual and the natural world, and what implications does this have for our understanding of identity and belonging?	The poem suggests a deep connection between the individual and the natural world, implying that our sense of self is intimately tied to the land and the cosmos.	“To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon” (lines 1-2), “eagle circled in blue sky” (line 9)
2. How does the poem use imagery and symbolism to convey a sense of spiritual growth and transformation, and what role does the eagle play in this process?	The poem uses imagery and symbolism to convey a sense of spiritual growth and transformation through the eagle, which represents spiritual growth, renewal, and connection to the natural world.	“eagle…sacred wings” (line 12), “circles of motion” (line 8), “breathe in, knowing we are made of / All this” (lines 15-16)
3. How does the poem engage with themes of colonialism and Indigenous identity, and what implications does this have for our understanding of the speaker’s message and the poem’s cultural context?	The poem engages with themes of colonialism and Indigenous identity through references to Indigenous spirituality, culture, and land, suggesting a call to decolonize the mind and spirit and reconnect with Indigenous ways of knowing.	“Salt River” (line 9), “eagle” (symbolism), “pray” and “open your whole self” (lines 1-2)

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statement about Inventory” by Dorothy Parker

Topic	Questions	Thesis Statement
Themes of Love and Relationships	1. How does the speaker portray love and relationships in the poem? 2. What emotions are evoked in the portrayal of romantic encounters?	In “Inventory,” Dorothy Parker explores the complexities of love and relationships, revealing the fleeting nature of romantic encounters and the emotional toll they can take.
Satirical Commentary	1. What elements of society or culture does the poem satirize? 2. How does Parker use irony and wit to critique societal norms?	Through sharp wit and biting satire, Parker’s “Inventory” offers a scathing commentary on the superficiality and hypocrisy of societal expectations surrounding love, marriage, and social status.
Existential Reflections	1. What existential themes are explored in the poem? 2. How does the speaker grapple with questions of identity and meaning?	“Inventory” delves into existential questions of identity, mortality, and the search for meaning in a world characterized by impermanence and uncertainty.
Feminist Perspectives	1. How does the poem address gender roles and expectations? 2. In what ways does Parker challenge traditional notions of femininity and womanhood?	Dorothy Parker’s “Inventory” offers a feminist critique of societal expectations placed on women, highlighting the constraints of gender roles and the desire for autonomy and agency in romantic relationships.

Literary Works Similar to “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

1. “The Peace of Wild Things” by Wendell Berry: Wendell Berry’s poem reflects on finding solace and connection in nature amidst the chaos of modern life. Like “Eagle Poem,” it emphasizes the spiritual significance of the natural world and the importance of attuning oneself to its rhythms.
2. “Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver: Mary Oliver’s poem explores themes of belonging and acceptance, inviting readers to embrace their place in the world. Like “Eagle Poem,” it celebrates the interconnectedness of all living beings and the beauty of the natural world.
3. “When I Heard the Learn’d Astronomer” by Walt Whitman: Walt Whitman’s poem contrasts the scientific understanding of the universe with the experience of awe and wonder in nature. Like “Eagle Poem,” it encourages readers to transcend intellectual knowledge and connect with the divine through direct experience.
4. “The Summer Day” by Mary Oliver: Another poem by Mary Oliver, “The Summer Day” contemplates the fleeting nature of life and the importance of living with intention and mindfulness. Like “Eagle Poem,” it encourages readers to appreciate the beauty and wonder of the world around them.
5. “The Fish” by Elizabeth Bishop: Elizabeth Bishop’s poem explores the themes of resilience and interconnectedness through the imagery of a caught fish. Like “Eagle Poem,” it invites readers to contemplate the mysteries of existence and the inherent value of all living beings.

Suggested Readings: “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

• Jaskoski, Helen, and Joy Harjo. “A MELUS Interview: Joy Harjo.” melus 16.1 (1989): 5-13.
• Harjo, Joy, and Mary Leen. “An art of saying: Joy Harjo’s poetry and the survival of storytelling.” American Indian Quarterly 19.1 (1995): 1-16. https://www.jstor.org/stable/4336869
• Harjo, Joy. In mad love and war. Wesleyan University Press, 1990.
• Harjo, Joy. How We Became Human: New and Selected Poems 1975-2002. WW Norton & Company, 2003.
• Harjo, Joy. Conflict Resolution for Holy Beings: Poems. WW Norton & Company, 2015.

Representative Quotations from “Eagle Poem” by Joy Harjo

Quotation	ContextContext in Literature & Literary Theory	Theoretical Perspective
“To pray you open your whole self / To sky, to earth, to sun, to moon”	Invitation to pray and connect with the natural world	Ecocritical perspective: emphasizes the interconnectedness of human and natural worlds
“And know there is more / That you can’t see, can’t hear; / Can’t know except in moments / Steadily growing, and in languages / That aren’t always sound but other / Circles of motion”	Description of the limits of human perception and the importance of intuition and non-verbal knowledge	Poststructuralist perspective: highlights the limitations of language and the importance of non-verbal forms of communication
“Like eagle that Sunday morning / Over Salt River. Circled in blue sky”	Image of the eagle flying over the Salt River Reservation	Postcolonial perspective: references the Indigenous experience and the importance of land and culture
“We see you, see ourselves and know / That we must take the utmost care / And kindness in all things”	Call to empathy, self-awareness, and kindness	Feminist perspective: emphasizes the importance of empathy, care, and kindness in relationships
“Breathe in, knowing we are made of / All this, and breathe, knowing / We are truly blessed because we / Were born, and die soon within a / True circle of motion”	Reflection on the interconnectedness of all things and the cycle of life and death	Indigenous perspective: emphasizes the importance of living in harmony with the natural world and recognizing the cycle of life and death