It is irrefutably true that culture is among the most discussed topics or issues when it comes to differences among countries and societies. In the poem “Tell Them” by Jetnil-Kijiiner, it is one of the core themes that the other attempts to communicate to its readers. Similarly, the short story “River in the Cloudless Sky” by Rai a Mai also provides readers with an opportunity to learn and understand the importance of understanding and being tolerant to other cultures. Notably, both Jetnil and Rai utilizes specific literary devices in developing their plots and communicating themes to the readers. They use imagery to depict the mentioned theme.
Imagery refers to visual descriptions or the use of figurative language in literature. Jetnil employs the technique to show the readers the good sides or the beauty of Marshall Island which she describes in her poem. Despite the poet being a bit disappointed by the fact that climate change is destroying the island, she urges America to consider helping them in addressing the issue. To do this, she describes the beauty of the island, its location, and many other things to make America aware of the island’s existence and need to rescue it. “And when others ask you where you got this you tell them they’re from the Marshall Islands” (Kijiiner). In this excerpt, the poet attempts to urge her readers to tell the world that Marshall, a small island also has beautiful earrings, baskets and many other good things. In River Rai, on the other hand, uses imagery of foodstuffs, animals and many others to give a beautiful picture of the island he comes from. “After bread with butter and coffee, we leave on horseback” (Rai 99). This excerpt shows that life at the island is typically not very different from that of the western world. “Later we go back home, our bags filled with corossols, Chinese tamarinds, African apples, and caramboles that will fill Grand-mère’s ‘ümete” (Rai 99). In this case, the author shows the world using imagery that the country produces good food.
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Notably, the manner in which the two authors describe the two countries in Oceania perfectly rhymes with the expectations of both Hau’ofa and Wendt concerning portrayal of the islands with respect to cultures. Hau’ofa, for instance, asserts that the culture of Oceania is very unique and should be depicted positively to the outside world (Hau’ofa 53). He says that it is not primitive, and it does not contain elements such as racism or identity based on skin which is common in other parts of the world. In other words, he stresses on positivity when delivering messages to the world. Wendt also does not like the belittling attitude among foreigners on indigenous cultures in Oceania (Wendt 3).
- Hau’ofa, Epeli. Our Sea of Islands. 2008.
- Kijiiner, Jetnir. Tell Them. From: https://jkijiner.wordpress.com/2011/04/13/tell-them/
- Rai, Mai. River in a Cloudless Sky. 2005.
- Wendt, Albert. Towards a New Oceania. 1977.
