Kaveh Akbar reads "Enough Food and a Mom"

The video explores Francine J Harris's poem from her book 'Play Dead', highlighting its unique style and themes. The poem defamiliarizes family and language, using strange and unprecedented expressions to convey deep experiences. The discussion delves into the poem's themes of family, embodiment, and the use of symbolism and imagery. The video concludes with reflections on the poem's impact and its place in the book.

What is the significance of the poem 'and a mom' in Francine J Harris's book 'Play Dead'?

• It is the first poem in the book.

• It ties together many themes from the book.

• It is unrelated to the book's themes.

• It is a standalone piece with no connection to the book.

How does the poem 'and a mom' challenge traditional concepts of family?

• By defamiliarizing family and language.

• By reinforcing traditional family roles.

• By ignoring family dynamics.

• By using familiar language.

What is a key characteristic of the language used in 'and a mom'?

• It is straightforward and simple.

• It is humorous and light-hearted.

• It is strange and unprecedented.

• It is formal and academic.

In the poem, what does the dad do to keep out the mom?

• He puts up weather stripping.

• He locks the doors.

• He hides in the attic.

• He calls the police.

What theme is explored through the interactions between the mom, dad, and ghost in the poem?

• The theme of financial success.

• The theme of technological advancement.

• The theme of political power.

• The theme of identity and memory.