avatarAmerica Zed⚡

Summary

The poem "Gated" reflects on the divisive nature of a community that isolates itself behind physical and ideological barriers, fostering mistrust and ignorance.

Abstract

"Gated" is a poignant poem that delves into the concept of a community fortified by gates and barriers, symbolizing exclusion and superiority. The residents of this community shun diversity and differences, preferring to remain secluded among their flowers and velvet shrubs. The poem criticizes their fear-driven mindset, which leads to a life devoid of love and acceptance for those who are different. It suggests that such a community, bound by narrow-mindedness and prejudice, contributes to societal divisions and shame. The poem implies that the residents' lives are limited and lonely, and it questions the morality of a community that rejects openness and compassion. Inspired by real-life observations, the poem is a stark reminder of the consequences of living in a gated community, both physically and metaphorically.

Opinions

  • The poem conveys a critical opinion of communities that prioritize exclusivity and superiority over inclusivity and understanding.
  • It portrays the residents of the gated community as fearful, ignorant, and unwilling to embrace diversity or engage with outsiders.
  • The poem suggests that the residents' choice to live in isolation is a conscious contribution to societal ignorance and shame.
  • It reflects on the irony that the very gates meant to protect the residents also serve to imprison them in a cycle of fear and narrow-mindedness.
  • The poem implies that the residents' actions are guided by outdated prejudices rather than a desire for genuine community and mutual care.
  • It questions the moral integrity of the community, hinting at the possibility that their actions may ultimately lead to a self-imposed exclusion from a more inclusive and compassionate society.
  • The poem concludes with a note of sardonic hope, praying that the residents of the gated community find themselves worthy of a heaven that represents the openness and acceptance they lack in their earthly lives.

Gated

A poem of people divided

Photo by Salomé Guruli on Unsplash

This is our gated community, You cannot come in and you won’t find a key.

We do not care for differences or understand your ways,

The rhythm of your body and that unfamiliar face.

We have superiority, Stay behind the metal and what do you see.

You need to keep a distance, Not being One of us,

We live among the flowers and our yellow velvet shrubs.

You keep your gated community, Bricked-up for the day you die Limited and lonely.

You will not love beyond the gate Your mind is locked on fear,

with no time for strangers or a passer-by out here.

You keep your mistrust community, with narrow selfish eyes that claim not to see,

All of those divisions and exclusions that inflame,

You keep your contribution to such ignorance and shame.

Misguided by old prejudice No open arms to care.

Let’s pray there is a heaven you are good enough to share.*

* Poetry inspired by real life.

© America Zed. Other Poetry by America Zed.

Poetry
Divided Nation
Injustice
Racism
Prejudice
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