Summary

The poem "The Strait" by Tina L. Smith celebrates Detroit's resilience and multifaceted character, rejecting pity and highlighting its strength and beauty.

Abstract

"The Strait" is a poetic tribute to Detroit, a city often reported as struggling but which the author insists is vibrant and resilient. The poem describes Detroit's rich heritage, from its history as a hub of invention and a beacon of freedom to its contributions to music and art. Despite the city's transition from opulence to urban grit, the author emphasizes its enduring strength, creativity, and friendliness. Detroit is portrayed as a place of balance, where adversity is met with innovation and where despair is often followed by rebirth. The poem concludes by affirming that the true beauty of Detroit lies in its resilience.

Opinions

The author believes that Detroit's reported decline is overstated and that the city's narrative is one of resilience, not despair.
There is a deep appreciation for Detroit's historical significance, particularly in terms of labor, automotive industry, and its role in the Underground Railroad.
The poem reflects a personal connection to the city, with the author drawing attention to Detroit's inspiring and friendly nature.
The author suggests that Detroit's challenges have only served to make it stronger, fostering a unique blend of creativity and innovation.
The poem conveys a sense of pride in Detroit's heritage and a belief that its true essence is found in its ability to adapt and thrive amidst adversity.

Poetry

The Strait

A Detroit poem

MacArthur Bridge, spanning the Detroit River between Detroit and Belle Isle (photo by author)

Reports of Detroit’s demise have been greatly exaggerated.

Save your pity. Your coddling. Your disdain.

Shed no tears for this city.

Drenched in a heritage of grit, Of invention, Of pain.

Of promise, Where citizen refugees flocked To begin again.

Of injustice, Of freedom — Last stop for the Underground train.

Of labor, Of wheels Built in the fast lane.

Of music, And art, A rhythmic refrain.

Once opulent, Now tired and worn. Turned urban from urbane.

Yet it’s strong. A muscle grown powerful With resistance and strain.

Balancing violence and pragmatism. Poverty and creativity. Anger and kindness. Despair and innovation. Death and rebirth.

A strait, but never narrow, harbor, Nor unwelcoming, Nor prone to complain.

Shed no tears for this city… For resilience is true beauty revealed.

The word “Detroit,” named by French settlers, means “The Strait.”

About the author: Tina L. Smith is a Detroit-area native whose Detroit roots run deep. She is drawn to frequent visits to a city she finds beautiful, inspiring, and extraordinarily friendly.