“Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

“Kindness,” by Naomi Shihab Nye, was first published in 1980 in her collection Different Ways to Pray, showingsimple yet profound language, exploring the importance of empathy and compassion in a world often filled with hardship. Nye’s use of free verse and vivid imagery creates a sense of intimacy and connection with the reader, inviting them to reflect on their own acts of kindness and the ripple effects they can have on others. The poem’s gentle tone and hopeful message serve as a reminder that even small gestures of kindness can have a lasting impact, ultimately contributing to a more compassionate and connected world.

Text: “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

Before you know what kindness really is
you must lose things,
feel the future dissolve in a moment
like salt in a weakened broth.
What you held in your hand,
what you counted and carefully saved,
all this must go so you know
how desolate the landscape can be
between the regions of kindness.
How you ride and ride
thinking the bus will never stop,
the passengers eating maize and chicken
will stare out the window forever.

Before you learn the tender gravity of kindness
you must travel where the Indian in a white poncho
lies dead by the side of the road.
You must see how this could be you,
how he too was someone
who journeyed through the night with plans
and the simple breath that kept him alive.

Before you know kindness as the deepest thing inside,
you must know sorrow as the other deepest thing.
You must wake up with sorrow.
You must speak to it till your voice
catches the thread of all sorrows
and you see the size of the cloth.
Then it is only kindness that makes sense anymore,
only kindness that ties your shoes
and sends you out into the day to gaze at bread,
only kindness that raises its head
from the crowd of the world to say
It is I you have been looking for,
and then goes with you everywhere
like a shadow or a friend.

Annotations: “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

Line	Annotation
Before you know what kindness really is	The poem begins by suggesting that kindness is not something that can be understood superficially; it requires a deeper understanding that comes from experience.
you must lose things,	To understand kindness, one must first experience loss, which can be a difficult and painful process.
feel the future dissolve in a moment	The speaker suggests that the future can suddenly become uncertain and unpredictable, like salt dissolving in a weakened broth.
like salt in a weakened broth.	This simile emphasizes the idea that the future can quickly lose its flavor and purpose.
What you held in your hand,	The speaker refers to the things that one holds dear, such as possessions, relationships, or dreams.
what you counted and carefully saved,	These things are carefully guarded and considered precious.
all this must go	However, these things can be taken away, and one must learn to let go.
so you know	The purpose of losing these things is to gain a deeper understanding.
how desolate the landscape can be	The speaker describes a barren and desolate landscape, symbolizing the emotional state of loss.
between the regions of kindness.	This desolate landscape exists between the moments of kindness and compassion.
How you ride and ride	The speaker describes a sense of being on a journey, perhaps a metaphor for life.
thinking the bus will never stop,	This line suggests a sense of being trapped or stuck in a situation.
the passengers eating maize and chicken	The passengers are engaged in everyday activities, oblivious to the speaker’s emotional state.
will stare out the window forever.	This line emphasizes the sense of being stuck and unable to move forward.
Before you learn the tender gravity of kindness	The speaker suggests that kindness is a profound and powerful force that must be learned through experience.
you must travel where the Indian in a white poncho	The speaker describes a specific image of an Indian man lying dead by the side of the road.
lies dead by the side of the road.	This image is a powerful symbol of loss and tragedy.
You must see how this could be you,	The speaker encourages the reader to empathize with the man and understand that they too could experience loss.
how he too was someone	The man is not just a stranger; he is a fellow human being with his own story and experiences.
who journeyed through the night with plans	The man had his own hopes and dreams, just like the reader.
and the simple breath that kept him alive.	The speaker emphasizes the preciousness of life and the simple things that sustain us.
Before you know kindness as the deepest thing inside,	The speaker suggests that kindness is a fundamental aspect of human nature.
you must know sorrow as the other deepest thing.	However, to understand kindness, one must also understand sorrow and loss.
You must wake up with sorrow.	The speaker encourages the reader to confront and accept their sorrow.
You must speak to it till your voice	The reader must engage with their sorrow and express it through their voice.
catches the thread of all sorrows	The speaker suggests that sorrow is a universal human experience that connects us all.
and you see the size of the cloth.	This line emphasizes the idea that sorrow is a vast and complex tapestry that connects us all.
Then it is only kindness that makes sense anymore,	Once one has experienced sorrow and loss, kindness is the only thing that truly makes sense.
only kindness that ties your shoes	Kindness is the force that helps us move forward and take care of ourselves.
and sends you out into the day to gaze at bread,	The speaker suggests that kindness encourages us to appreciate the simple things in life.
only kindness that raises its head	Kindness is a powerful force that emerges from the crowd of human experiences.
from the crowd of the world to say	Kindness speaks to us from the midst of human suffering.
It is I you have been looking for,	Kindness is the thing that we have been searching for all along.
and then goes with you everywhere	Once we have found kindness, it accompanies us on our journey through life.
like a shadow or a friend.	Kindness is a constant companion that follows us like a shadow or a loyal friend.

Literary And Poetic Devices: “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

1. Alliteration: This device involves the repetition of consonant sounds at the beginning of words. In “Kindness,” the phrase “feel the future” exemplifies alliteration with the repeated “f” sound, enhancing the poetic flow and emphasizing the feeling of dissolution and uncertainty.
2. Anaphora: Anaphora refers to the repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or lines. The repeated phrase “Before you” at the beginning of multiple lines in the poem serves as an anaphora, structuring the exploration of the theme of kindness by highlighting the prerequisites for understanding it.
3. Assonance: Assonance is the repetition of vowel sounds within words in close proximity. In “Kindness,” the phrase “maize and chicken” illustrates assonance with the repeated long “a” sound, creating a sense of rhythm and harmony in the description of the scene.
4. Consonance: Consonance involves the repetition of consonant sounds within words in close proximity. The phrase “counted and carefully saved” in the poem demonstrates consonance with the repeated “d” and “t” sounds, contributing to the musicality of the verse.
5. Enjambment: Enjambment occurs when a sentence or phrase runs over from one line of poetry to the next without a pause. This device is evident throughout “Kindness,” such as in the line “you must lose things, / feel the future dissolve in a moment,” where the thought continues seamlessly across line breaks, emphasizing the fluidity of experience.
6. Hyperbole: Hyperbole involves exaggeration for emphasis or effect. In the poem, the line “thinking the bus will never stop” uses hyperbole to convey the feeling of endlessness or eternity, intensifying the sense of anticipation or anxiety.
7. Imagery: Imagery employs vivid language to create mental images for the reader. Throughout “Kindness,” imagery is utilized, such as in the depiction of the “Indian in a white poncho” lying dead by the roadside, which evokes a powerful visual and emotional response.
8. Irony: Irony occurs when there is a contrast between expectation and reality. An example of irony in the poem is found in the line “thinking the bus will never stop,” where the expectation of perpetual motion is contradicted by the reality of the bus eventually halting.
9. Metaphor: Metaphor is a figure of speech that makes a comparison between two unrelated things. In “Kindness,” the line “sorrow as the other deepest thing” employs metaphor to liken sorrow to something profound and significant, deepening the exploration of emotional depth.
10. Onomatopoeia: Onomatopoeia involves words that imitate the sounds they describe. While less prevalent in this poem, an example can be seen in the phrase “the simple breath,” where the word “breath” echoes the sound it represents, enhancing the sensory experience.
11. Oxymoron: Oxymoron combines contradictory terms for effect. The phrase “tender gravity” in the poem juxtaposes softness with weightiness, creating a striking and memorable image that invites contemplation.
12. Parallelism: Parallelism is the use of similar grammatical structures or patterns for effect. Throughout “Kindness,” parallelism is employed in the repetition of phrases beginning with “you must,” which lends a sense of structure and cohesion to the poem’s exploration of its central theme.
13. Personification: Personification attributes human characteristics to non-human entities. An example in the poem is “only kindness that ties your shoes,” where kindness is depicted as performing a human action, emphasizing its nurturing and supportive qualities.
14. Repetition: Repetition involves the repeated use of words or phrases for emphasis. In “Kindness,” the repetition of the phrase “Before you know” underscores the importance of certain experiences or realizations in understanding the concept being explored.
15. Simile: Simile compares two unlike things using “like” or “as.” While less frequent in this poem, an example can be seen in the line “like salt in a weakened broth,” where the dissolution of the future is likened to the dispersal of salt, adding depth to the imagery.
16. Symbolism: Symbolism uses symbols to represent ideas or concepts. The “Indian in a white poncho” can be interpreted as a symbol of vulnerability or mortality, adding layers of meaning to the poem’s exploration of human experience.
17. Synecdoche: Synecdoche uses a part to represent the whole or vice versa. The phrase “maize and chicken” represents food in general, employing synecdoche to evoke a broader sense of sustenance and nourishment.
18. Tone: Tone refers to the author’s attitude towards the subject matter or audience. In “Kindness,” the reflective and contemplative tone invites readers to engage with the themes of loss, empathy, and compassion presented in the poem.
19. Verse: Verse refers to a single line of poetry. Each line in “Kindness” constitutes a verse, contributing to the overall structure and rhythm of the poem.
20. Wordplay: Wordplay involves the playful or creative use of words for humorous or rhetorical effect. While not overtly present in this poem, wordplay can be observed in the subtle nuances of language and imagery employed by the poet to convey complex emotions and ideas.

Themes: “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

• Loss
• The poem begins by stating that you must experience loss before you can truly understand kindness. The speaker describes this loss as a feeling of the future dissolving “like salt in a weakened broth” (lines 3-4). This suggests that loss can be sudden and unexpected, and that it can leave us feeling empty and uncertain.
• The speaker also mentions the loss of material possessions. They say that “what you held in your hand, / what you counted and carefully saved, all this must go” (lines 5-6). This suggests that material possessions are not a source of true happiness, and that they can be easily lost.
• Empathy
• The poem emphasizes the importance of empathy in understanding kindness. The speaker says that “you must travel where the Indian in a white poncho / lies dead by the side of the road” (lines 10-11). This is a metaphor for experiencing suffering. By seeing the suffering of others, we can begin to understand our own capacity for compassion.
• The speaker also says that “you must see how this could be you” (line 12). This is a reminder that we are all human, and that we are all capable of experiencing both joy and sorrow.
• Understanding Sorrow
• The poem suggests that understanding sorrow is essential for understanding kindness. The speaker says that “Before you know kindness as the deepest thing inside, / you must know sorrow as the other deepest thing” (lines 13-14). This suggests that kindness and sorrow are two sides of the same coin. We cannot fully appreciate kindness until we have also experienced sorrow.
• The speaker goes on to describe the process of understanding sorrow. They say that “you must wake up with sorrow. You must speak to it till your voice / catches the thread of all sorrows and you see the size of the cloth” (lines 15-17). This suggests that sorrow is a vast and complex emotion, but that it is possible to come to terms with it through talking about it and sharing it with others.
• Kindness as the Answer
• The poem ultimately suggests that kindness is the answer to all of life’s problems. The speaker says that “Then it is only kindness that makes sense anymore” (line 18). This suggests that kindness is the most important thing in life, and that it is the only thing that can truly help us through difficult times.
• The speaker goes on to describe the many ways that kindness can be expressed. They say that kindness is “only kindness that ties your shoes / and sends you out into the day to gaze at bread” (lines 19-20). This suggests that kindness can be as simple as doing something nice for someone else, no matter how small.
• The speaker also says that kindness is “only kindness that raises its head / from the crowd of the world to say / It is I you have been looking for” (lines 21-23). This suggests that kindness can be a powerful force for good in the world, and that it can make a real difference in the lives of others.

Literary Theories and “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

Literary Theory	Explanation	Example from “Kindness”
Feminist Theory	Examines literature through the lens of gender roles, power dynamics, and patriarchy.	The poem explores the vulnerability of the “Indian in a white poncho” lying dead by the roadside, shedding light on societal injustices and the consequences of power imbalances.
Psychoanalytic Theory	Analyzes literature based on subconscious desires, conflicts, and psychological states.	The exploration of sorrow and kindness as profound emotional experiences reflects the poem’s engagement with the complexities of human psychology and the unconscious mind.
Postcolonial Theory	Focuses on the impact of colonialism, imperialism, and cultural hegemony in literature.	The portrayal of the “Indian in a white poncho” can be interpreted as a critique of colonial violence and the dehumanization of marginalized communities, highlighting the lasting effects of colonial oppression.

Critical Questions about “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

• Question 1: How does the speaker use imagery and metaphor to convey the idea that kindness is a profound and transformative experience?
• Example: In the lines “Before you know what kindness really is / you must lose things, / feel the future dissolve in a moment / like salt in a weakened broth,” the speaker uses the metaphor of salt dissolving in broth to convey the idea that kindness can suddenly and profoundly change one’s perspective, just as salt can quickly lose its flavor in a weakened broth.
• Question 2: How does the poem explore the relationship between kindness and sorrow, and what message do you think the speaker is trying to convey about this relationship?
• Example: In the lines “Before you know kindness as the deepest thing inside, / you must know sorrow as the other deepest thing,” the speaker suggests that kindness and sorrow are intimately connected, and that one must experience sorrow in order to truly understand kindness. This conveys the message that kindness is not just a superficial feeling, but a deep and profound response to human suffering.
• Question 3: How does the speaker use the image of the Indian man in the white poncho to illustrate the idea that kindness is a universal human experience?
• Example: In the lines “You must travel where the Indian in a white poncho / lies dead by the side of the road. / You must see how this could be you, / how he too was someone / who journeyed through the night with plans / and the simple breath that kept him alive,” the speaker uses the image of the Indian man to convey the idea that kindness is not limited to one’s own experiences or community, but is a universal human experience that connects us all.
• Question 4: How does the poem suggest that kindness is a force that can help us move forward and find meaning in the face of loss and uncertainty?
• Example: In the lines “Then it is only kindness that makes sense anymore, / only kindness that ties your shoes / and sends you out into the day to gaze at bread,” the speaker suggests that kindness is a force that can help us find meaning and purpose in the face of uncertainty, and that it is the only thing that truly makes sense in the face of loss and sorrow.

Topics, Questions and Thesis Statement about “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

Topics	Questions	Thesis Statement
Themes of Empathy and Compassion	How does Nye explore the significance of empathy and compassion in “Kindness”?	In “Kindness,” Naomi Shihab Nye eloquently examines the transformative power of empathy and compassion, portraying them as essential virtues that bridge divides and foster human connection.
Reflection on Human Experience	What insights does “Kindness” offer about the human experience, particularly in relation to sorrow, loss, and the search for meaning?	Through poignant imagery and introspective reflection, “Kindness” delves into the depths of human experience, illuminating the intertwined nature of sorrow and compassion in our journey through life.
Critique of Societal Indifference	How does Nye critique societal indifference and the failure to recognize the humanity in others in “Kindness”?	“Kindness” serves as a poignant critique of societal apathy and the tendency to overlook the struggles and suffering of others, urging readers to embrace empathy as a catalyst for positive change.
Examination of Cultural Identity	What role does cultural identity play in “Kindness,” and how does Nye navigate themes of diversity and interconnectedness?	Through nuanced portrayal and universal themes, “Kindness” celebrates the diversity of cultural identities while emphasizing the shared humanity that unites individuals across different backgrounds.

Literary Works Similar to “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

1. “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” by T.S. Eliot: This poem explores the themes of isolation, regret, and the yearning for connection. It delves into the complexities of human emotions and the search for meaning in a seemingly indifferent world.
2. “Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night” by Dylan Thomas: This powerful villanelle urges defiance against death and celebrates the enduring spirit of life. It emphasizes the importance of fighting for what matters and leaving a lasting impact.
3. “When I Have Fears That I May Cease to Be” by John Keats: This sonnet grapples with the fear of mortality and the desire to leave a lasting legacy through art. It highlights the tension between the limitations of human existence and the boundless potential of creativity.
4. “Wild Geese” by Mary Oliver: This poem offers a message of acceptance and belonging. It invites the reader to embrace their flaws and imperfections, reminding them that they are a part of the natural world and have a place in the universe.
5. “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost: This iconic poem explores the theme of choice and its consequences. It encourages reflection on the paths we choose in life and the potential for both regret and fulfillment.

Suggested Readings: “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

• Nye, Naomi Shihab. “Kindness.” Words Under the Words: Selected Poems. Eighth Mountain Press, 1995. This collection features “Kindness” alongside a range of Nye’s poems exploring themes of identity, cultural heritage, and everyday human experiences.

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• “Kindness Naomi Shihab Nye 1980.” Encyclopedia.com, accessed May 12, 2024, https://www.encyclopedia.com/places/africa/niger-political-geography/kindness. This encyclopedia entry offers insights into the context of the poem’s creation, including biographical information on Nye and the social and political climate of the time.

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• Nye, Naomi Shihab. Fuel: Poems. BOA Editions, Ltd., 1998. “Kindness” is included in this collection, which explores a wide range of human emotions and experiences, including love, loss, and the search for meaning.

Representative Quotations from “Kindness” by Naomi Shihab Nye

Quotation	Context	Theoretical Perspective
“Before you know what kindness really is / you must lose things”	The poem begins by suggesting that kindness is not something that can be understood superficially; it requires a deeper understanding that comes from experience.	Existentialism: The speaker emphasizes the importance of experiencing loss and uncertainty to gain a deeper understanding of kindness.
“feel the future dissolve in a moment / like salt in a weakened broth”	The speaker uses a metaphor to convey the idea that kindness can suddenly and profoundly change one’s perspective.	Poststructuralism: The use of metaphor and imagery challenges traditional notions of language and meaning, highlighting the instability and provisionality of human experience.
“You must travel where the Indian in a white poncho / lies dead by the side of the road”	The speaker uses the image of the Indian man to convey the idea that kindness is a universal human experience that connects us all.	Critical Race Theory: The poem highlights the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of cultural and social difference, challenging dominant narratives of oppression.
“Before you know kindness as the deepest thing inside, / you must know sorrow as the other deepest thing”	The speaker suggests that kindness and sorrow are intimately connected, and that one must experience sorrow in order to truly understand kindness.	Psychoanalytic Theory: The poem explores the idea that kindness is a response to the universal human experience of sorrow and loss, highlighting the importance of emotional depth and complexity.
“Then it is only kindness that makes sense anymore, / only kindness that ties your shoes / and sends you out into the day to gaze at bread”	The speaker suggests that kindness is a force that can help us find meaning and purpose in the face of uncertainty.	Humanism: The poem emphasizes the importance of kindness as a fundamental aspect of human nature, highlighting its capacity to bring us together and provide a sense of purpose and meaning.