Dhruv Mehta

IB English 11 SL – Block C
29/09/2023

It Crosses My Mind
5. What is the central purpose of the poem?

Through this work, the poet aims to display the belief of the assimilation of Indigenous people into Canadian
culture. The speaker exclaims their fear of the total abolishment of Indigenous culutre, and they worry that
future generation may not be acquainted with a culture that has been fomred as a result of a myriad of hardships
and after the deaths of many individuals.

6. How is this purpose achieved?

By means of the repetition of the words “yes” and “no,” alongside metaphors such as “a level playing field
turned on its side,” and diction choices such as “slap confidently,” the poet is able to convey her message with
strikin gdetail and clarity. Foremost, the repetition of “yes” and “no” signals uncertainty in the speaker, and how
they are unsure of whether or not to be in accordance with the cultural discrimination, or to stand up agianst it,
which showcases their worry for the future. Furthermore, the aforementioned metaphor describes how, despite
the fact that the status quo seems normal, there are many hidden ways in which the discrimination and isolation
of the Indigenous community occurs behind the scenes. Lastly, diction plays an important role in this poem as it
shows how the actions of non-Indigenous individuals are full of haughtiness and pride, unaware of their
negative effects on First Nations peoples.
Seven Central Concepts:
Identity and Perspective:

 Since the poet is of Métis origin, this poem is presented from the lens of an individual that belongs to the
Indigenous community
 The identity of the poet is prevalent in the diction choices and contrasts in the poem, as they typically place a
negative emphasis on Canadians, and victimize the Aboriginal community
Representation:

 The emotions expressed by the speaker are commonplace to many distinct ethnicities, even those apart from the
Indigenous community, as many people are obliged to contour their actions to meet the needs and expectations of
their surroundings.
Communication:

 The poet’s choices embrace the fact that the distinct divide between the cultures of Canada and Indigenous people
is beginning to deteriorate
 This allows the poet to communicate the message of assimilation