My Hometown

Hayden Myrick

Jernigan

AP Literature

9 March 9, 2011

“My Hometown”

            “My Hometown” describes a seemingly small town that rests “near the Missouri River.” Based on the first two lines, the town acquired its name after the epic writer Homer. Homer’s fame spans centuries. His literature continues to touch the lives of readers, even after so many years. The author, Donal Hefferman, compares her hometown figuratively and literally to the great author. In addition to holding “Homer” as its name, it also carries the same connotations Homer carries. A pioneer among writers, Homer typically symbolizes a master: the ideal writer. There exists no equivalent equal. The author insists that their town carries the same legacy. Its strength to “outlast the depression” gives the town eternal qualities. The last four lines symbolize the “free” and rebellious youth. Sex in a car resembles youth in revolt along with freedom of spirit. The town shows the changing of culture, but with a readiness to accept the changes that come.

            This poem creates feelings within the reader that compare to the carefree nights of summer. Reminiscing past memories while experiencing and anticipating new experiences make the poem emotionally charged. The image of the pickup truck serves as a vessel that launches the town into a new generation. The poem seems to continue even when it ends. The pickup truck will inevitably become one of the memories of the past and new memories will become the present. In this way, the poem, as well as the town, hold onto time and continue eternally.