Analysis Of The Return Of Virgin Mary By Annie Brooks

379 Words2 Pages
Using religious figures to communicate the emotions of her entire race, Brooks reveals a surprising forgiveness for the prejudice her peers undergo. Contemplating the return of the Virgin Mary, Brooks reaches the conclusion “Mary would not punish men—If Mary came again.” In Brooks’ mind, if Mary “came” on Earth “again,” she would forgive, not punish, the world for selfishly crucifying her son hundreds of years ago. This religious allusion that dominates the entirety of the poem also acts as a suggestion for the black race. With Martin Luther King Jr. thinking, Brooks believes the people of her color should, “forgive” instead of “punish” the white men for prejudice. Her peaceful call for mercy through a holy reference reverses all expectations.