What does the poet dream about?
Gabriel Okara (1921-2019) dreams a strange and meaningful dream during his deep sleep in the poem “Snowflakes Sail Gently Down”. The dream takes place after the calm scene of snowfall. It is not about death or sorrow but about life, creation, and renewal. This dream becomes a picture of nature’s life and the poet’s inner world.
Dream Of Black Birds: The poet dreams of black birds flying inside him. They are not real birds but symbols of his imagination and inner energy. He says they are “nesting and hatching” inside him. This means new life and ideas are being born in his mind. The birds stand for hope and creativity that grow even in silence. In his words,
“I dreamed of birds, black birds flying in my inside.”
Oil Palms Bearing Suns: The black birds make nest
s on
“oil palms bearing suns for fruits.” This image shows nature’s richness and power. The oil palms carry shining fruits like suns. It means that life continues with light and strength. The trees are full of energy, and they protect life from being destroyed. The poet dreams of growth and renewal through this picture.
Uprooters And The Roots: The poet also dreams of the “uprooters,” people who try to cut down the trees. But they become tired and lean on the roots. He says,
“And I dreamed the uprooters tired and limp”
It means that man cannot destroy nature completely. Humans depend on nature for life. The dream teaches that nature is stronger than human greed.
The poet’s dream of the black birds, oil palms, and deep roots to show how nature continues to renew itself.His dream scene reminds us that life grows from within, and even after silence or death.
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