Noliwe Rooks - 'Yet Do I Marvel' by Countee Cullen

The transcript explores philosophical and existential questions through the lens of Countee Cullen's poetry. It questions God's intentions and the nature of human suffering, referencing mythological figures like Tantalus and Sisyphus. The text delves into the limits of human understanding of divine actions and marvels at the creation of a Black poet, highlighting the complexity and curiosity of such a creation.

What is the primary question raised in the introduction of the poem?

• Why do humans have to work?

• Why do people dream?

• Why are some creatures created with limitations?

• Why is the sky blue?

Which mythological figure is mentioned as being baited by fickle fruit?

• Sisyphus

• Tantalus

• Icarus

• Prometheus

What is the struggle of Sisyphus as mentioned in the poem?

• Being chained to a rock

• Stealing fire from the gods

• Pushing a boulder up a never-ending hill

• Flying too close to the sun

What does the poet marvel at in the final section?

• The beauty of nature

• The paradox of being a Black poet

• The complexity of mathematics

• The vastness of the universe

What task is the Black poet given, according to the poem?

• To write novels

• To sing and express

• To paint landscapes

• To build monuments