"The Moment" by Latisa Robinson

In this poem, Latisa first sculpts the image of her as the loving mother, with a new child "nestled in my arms." She contemplates his life--from his first steps to the birth his own child. We have this image in our heads and then Latisa turns the poem completely: we learn close to the end that "this moment" is not actually happening, opposed to what we have been led to believe. We then see the inner-workings of her heart. We understand that this is a dream, a wish for the future, a fantasy that only time can bring about. I think this is a really effective technique--I totally didn't see the ending coming, but I am glad I couldn't see it. For this reason, I think "The Moment" gives the reader a shocking ending and the lasting impression of what this moment will be when she finally is able to get it.

I love the title and opening line to this poem. I think they read very well together and because of this, the reader is brought immediately into the poem. We cannot help but be sucked in because the poem makes us. One idea I have for another draft is to place real, concrete images and details in place of words like "star athlete, smart," and "popular." I think it would be effective to illustrate the crumpled jersey on his bedroom floor that reeks of last night's victory, or hear the telephone ring, with the endless stream of femal voices, asking for him. These are more specific than perhaps a "moment" in time would produce, but I think it would be a very good way to make the reader want to see this kid too. Then, he would be more than just the narrator's son, and would become for the reader, a real human being with real human characteristics--flaws and wonderful attributes alike. I guess the difference would be for the reader, not the author. I think it would help to make the reader care about him, and in turn, care about her getting him; however, it could take away from the brevity of the poem (both in words and lasting images). That, of course, is just an idea.