Where I'm From by Felicia Madlock

Together, we read the poem "Where I'm From" by Felicia Madlock. We believe that Madlock is exploring the trials that her ancestors experienced in order for her to obtain the freedom that she upholds today. Along with the troubles of her ancestors, she mentions some of her own as well. An "I Am From" poem usually brings a presence of the past experiences that the someone had went through; is does not necessarily have to be the author.


We believe that Felicia Madlock is expressing the experiences of her fellow ancestors and their hardships during the time before and after the civil rights movement. These hardships are what made her who she is today and ultimately allowed her to appreciate the opportunities that she has been given.


By stating in the poem, "I am from... Martin Luther King's dreams... I am from hands that toiled cotton..." clearly indicates that she is from ancestors that had to face these trials in order for her to have the life she now lives. We believe that she is showing gratitude. "For I, too, am America" she stated. We believe she means not only as individual, but being a part of a culture and race that has helped shape America. She then says, "And life for me hasn’t been no crystal stairs" showing that her life has not been comprised of easy events and tasks.


She also provides proud accomplishments that her ancestors and race has accomplished and she has been apart of, "I am from Michael Jackson mania Prince’s Purple Passion" and "To Harold Washington’s historical victory". This adds to the validity of the poem, because these are actual event in history that contribute to her being


Later on she says, "I am from dying days of disco... When Funk was the fever". This obviously proves that there is a transition in time, allowing us to configure that she is talking about her family. Mostly, she emphasizes on the large change in time, that has given her freedom. 


At the end of the poem, it takes on a more solemn feel where she expresses her own experiences, "I am from poetry... I am from eyes that seek truth...". This shows that as a person, Felicia Madlock has grown into a strong woman that is proud of her race, culture and history. 

Literally, every line in this poem, serves a significant meaning. It is obvious that Felicia Madlock is proud of where she has come from and thrives in the history of her hardworking ancestors. She continues to serve as a very inspirational and strong woman today.

While people face hardships throughout their lives, experiences, whether it be personal or through family, are ultimately determined by how people shape them.