The Equilibria of Humor and Solemnity in Jackie Kay's Pain Angeliki Syrlantzi 12th Grade

The Equilibria of Humor and Solemnity in Jackie Kay's Pain

Within a predominantly autobiographical collection of works, Jackie Kay could not be less dubious about her references to past and present personal experiences. No matter the conditions under which those experiences unravel, either interpersonal or societal, Kay is able to express the sentiments rooted within, as well as explore in depth the trauma she has endured. Namely, the exploration of trauma necessarily includes a prudent assessment of pain, as those two terms, that are not mutually exclusive, can be inversely related; Pain causes trauma, but trauma also causes pain. The expression of pain in her works, however, is both solemn and comical, crafting an elaborate chiaroscuro painting, balancing lights and shadows, playful and somber tones.

Poetry is a common trauma response. This coping mechanism is evidently adopted by Jackie Kay throughout the collection of works “Darling”. The poet is unafraid to express raw and intense emotions in her poetry. Her language is often evocative and powerful, conveying the depth of pain through vivid imagery and heartfelt language. In the poem “Gap Year", Kay paints a loving mother-son relationship, in which she longs for her son...