Selling Manhattan By Carol Ann Duffy Analysis

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The poem "Selling Manhattan" by Carol Ann Duffy is a thought-provoking and satirical piece that explores the themes of colonialism, capitalism, and the commodification of history. Through the voice of a Native American woman, the poem recounts the infamous story of Peter Minuit's purchase of Manhattan from the Lenape Indians for $24. Duffy's masterful use of language and imagery brings to life the complexities of this historical event, inviting readers to reflect on the true value of land, culture, and identity.

Colonialism and the Erasure of Native American Culture

The poem begins by introducing the reader to the Native American woman's perspective, highlighting the disconnect between the Native American understanding of land as a shared resource and the European concept of private ownership. Duffy writes, "We had no idea of the value of the land / we sold, or what it was worth" (Duffy 3-4). This statement underscores the vast cultural differences between the two groups, setting the stage for the exploitation that follows.

Through the character of Peter Minuit, Duffy portrays the colonial mindset, which views land as a commodity to be bought and sold. The speaker notes, "He had a way with words, / and a pocket full of small change" (Duffy 7-8). This image highlights the power imbalance between the two parties, as Minuit uses his linguistic and economic superiority to manipulate the Native Americans.

The Commodification of History

The poem critiques the way in which history is often reduced to a series of transactions, erasing the complex cultural and social contexts that shape human experience. Duffy writes, "The sale was a small thing, / a trivial exchange of goods" (Duffy 11-12). This statement underscores the ways in which historical events are often boiled down to simplistic narratives, obscuring the intricate web of relationships and motivations that drive human action.

The poem also explores the idea that history is often written from the perspective of the victor, marginalizing the voices and experiences of those who have been oppressed. The speaker notes, "We were not consulted, / our opinions were not sought" (Duffy 15-16). This statement highlights the power dynamics at play in the creation of historical narratives, where the voices of the powerful are often privileged over those of the marginalized.

The Performance of Identity

Throughout the poem, Duffy explores the performance of identity, highlighting the ways in which individuals and groups negotiate their sense of self in relation to others. The speaker notes, "I wore a mask of civility, / a veneer of polite conversation" (Duffy 19-20). This image underscores the ways in which individuals often perform certain roles or identities in order to navigate complex social situations.

The poem also explores the tension between authenticity and performance, highlighting the ways in which individuals may feel compelled to adopt certain personas or masks in order to survive in a hostile or oppressive environment. The speaker writes, "I played the part of the Native American, / a scripted role, a predetermined part" (Duffy 23-24). This statement underscores the ways in which individuals may feel trapped by societal expectations, forced to conform to certain norms or stereotypes in order to avoid marginalization or exclusion.

Resistance and Resilience

Despite the themes of colonialism, capitalism, and the commodification of history, the poem ultimately offers a message of resistance and resilience. The speaker notes, "But I remember the taste of the land, / the smell of the rivers, the sound of the wind" (Duffy 27-28). This image underscores the ways in which individuals may hold onto their cultural heritage and sense of identity, even in the face of overwhelming oppression.

The poem concludes with a powerful statement of resistance, as the speaker declares, "I am the daughter of the Lenape, / and I will not be sold" (Duffy 31-32). This statement underscores the ways in which individuals may resist the forces of colonialism and capitalism, reclaiming their cultural heritage and sense of identity in the face of oppression.

Conclusion

"Selling Manhattan" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the complex themes of colonialism, capitalism, and the commodification of history. Through the voice of a Native American woman, Duffy brings to life the intricate web of relationships and motivations that shape human experience. The poem ultimately offers a message of resistance and resilience, highlighting the ways in which individuals may hold onto their cultural heritage and sense of identity in the face of overwhelming oppression.