Poetry Analysis

The poem 'a mango tree at the volta' is a reflective piece that explores the intersection of human ambition, nature, and existential musings. It begins by describing a gorge along the Volta River in Akosombo, a town known for the Akosombo Dam. The imagery of a wall built by a man driven mad by dreams suggests the overwhelming power of human ambition and its potential to consume vast natural resources, as indicated by the fire that swallows forests. The poem warns of the dangers of water for those unprepared, symbolizing life's challenges without faith or resources. It reflects on the vulnerability of both men and women in the face of nature's power. The poem also touches on the theme of forgotten stories and the relentless demands of nature. The imagery of something soft and broken resembling a heart suggests the emotional toll of these endeavors. The poem concludes with a meditation on time and existence, highlighting the futility of human efforts to control nature, as symbolized by the mango tree and the river. The poem's free verse form allows for a fluid exploration of these themes, emphasizing the complexity and interconnectedness of human and natural worlds.