Vox Populi
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Clarissa Scott Delany: Joy
Joy shakes me like the wind that lifts a sail, Like the roistering wind That laughs through stalwart pines. It floods me like the sun On rain-drenched trees That flash with silver and green. I abandon myself to joy— I laugh—I sing. Too long have I walked a desolate way, Too long stumbled down a maze Bewildered.
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Clarissa Scott Delany (1900-1926) was a poet, essayist, and social worker associated with the Harlem Renaissance movement.
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This poem sums up like no other, the path my personal grief followed, after the death of my spouse 4 years ago. A bewilderment at the heart of life, which eventually opened into joy again. Joy as thanks to life and to her honor. This must often be the case for those who grieve personal loss, but also injustice, whether systemic or personal. Joy coupled with resolve to walk on. Ms. Scott Delaney provides a powerful healing poem for me. Hopefully for other readers. Thanks.
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Thanks for sharing this news of your journey, James. I agree that poetry, especially this poem, heals us.
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