In his poem “Slam, Dunk, & Hook” (1991), Yusef Komunyaka indicates that the players use basketball as a way to cope with their sorrow. Komunyaka supports his indication by demonstrating uses of vivid imagery and allusion. The author’s purpose is to show the readers that even in a time of sorrow, people must find a way cope and gain strength from their grief. The author writes in an informal tone to address his audience of young students who may have an interest in