Exploring Identity and Racial Challenges

The poem 'Baggage' explores themes of cultural identity, societal challenges, and the beauty of melanin. It delves into the complexities of being black or African-American, addressing stereotypes and the societal perceptions of skin color. The narrative celebrates the uniqueness of melanin while highlighting the shared human experience and the unity found in diversity.

What is the main theme introduced in the poem 'Baggage'?

• Technology and innovation

• Nature and environment

• Identity and heritage

• Travel and exploration

What challenge does the speaker's sister face in the poem?

• Desire to travel

• Struggle with racial identity

• Fear of heights

• Lack of education

What does the speaker's sister admit to their mother?

• She wants to be white

• She wants to travel

• She wants to learn a new language

• She wants to be a doctor

What advice does the speaker's mother give to her brother?

• Never talk back to the police

• Always be polite

• Travel the world

• Study hard

What does the speaker's mother remind her brother about interacting with the police?

• To record the interaction

• To never talk back

• To always carry identification

• To ask for a lawyer

How does the speaker view their own melanin?

• As a burden

• As a source of pride

• As a mystery

• As a disadvantage

What does the speaker thank God for in relation to their identity?

• For making them a melanin goddess

• For their education

• For their family

• For their wealth

What societal issue is highlighted through the use of language in the poem?

• Technological advancement

• Environmental pollution

• Economic disparity

• Cultural appropriation

What does the poem suggest about the creation of language?

• It is irrelevant to identity

• It is a collaborative process

• It is created by those in power

• It is static and unchanging

What does the poem suggest about the nature of skin color?

• It is a simple characteristic

• It carries historical and personal significance

• It is irrelevant in society

• It is purely genetic