The contrapuntal, a poetic form built on interwoven voices, offers a unique way to explore complex narratives. The last two lines of a contrapuntal poem don’t simply conclude the piece; they make up a crucial component of the interwoven structure, often resonating with earlier lines to create a multi-layered meaning. This article delves into the contrapuntal form, exploring its structure and impact, drawing from the work and teaching of poet Trace DePass.
Contents
Understanding the Contrapuntal Form
Trace DePass, a poet and teaching artist, describes the contrapuntal as a poem composed of two or more columns. These columns can be read vertically, but their magic lies in the horizontal reading across the columns, creating new meanings and connections. Imagine a conversation unfolding on paper, each column representing a distinct voice. This conversational aspect is key to understanding how the last two lines function within the overall structure.
Screenshot of a contrapuntal poem "Silence"
DePass’s introduction to this form was almost accidental. He wrote “Silence,” a two-column poem, unaware of its formal classification. It was poet Jon Sands who introduced him to the work of Tyehimba Jess, solidifying DePass’s connection to this compelling form.
Screenshot of a contrapuntal poem "Silence" continued
The Contrapuntal as a Tool for Agency
For DePass, the contrapuntal offers a sense of agency, particularly relevant to his experiences as a Black youth. The multiple paths within the poem mirror the complexities of life, allowing for a reframing and rearranging of experiences. In “Self-Portrait as the Space Between Us,” he utilizes a three-column contrapuntal to explore the shared public spaces where both safety and vulnerability coexist.
Screenshot of a three-column contrapuntal poem
The last two lines of this poem, and indeed of any contrapuntal, are not merely an ending. They are part of the interwoven network of meaning. They can offer resolution, create tension, or echo previous lines, adding depth and complexity to the poem’s message.
Teaching the Contrapuntal
DePass’s teaching methods emphasize accessibility and vulnerability. He uses prompts that encourage students to explore their experiences and emotions, creating a space for self-discovery and healing. In a classroom exercise, students contribute lines to a shared poem, creating a multi-voiced narrative that reflects their collective experiences.
Screenshot of a community student poem
This collaborative approach highlights the power of the contrapuntal to build community and foster understanding. The last two lines of these collaborative poems often hold a special significance, representing a shared conclusion or a collective voice.
Screenshot of a community student poem continued
The Contrapuntal and Anti-Racist Pedagogy
DePass connects the contrapuntal form to anti-racist pedagogy, challenging traditional notions of “literary” writing. He advocates for a more inclusive and equitable approach to teaching poetry, recognizing the importance of emotional sustainability and providing students with the tools to explore their own narratives.
Conclusion: The Power of Interwoven Voices
The contrapuntal, with its interwoven voices and multi-layered meanings, offers a unique and powerful way to engage with poetry. The last two lines of a contrapuntal poem are not simply an ending; they are a crucial part of the overall structure, resonating with earlier lines and contributing to the poem’s complex tapestry of meaning. Through his work and teaching, Trace DePass demonstrates the potential of this form to foster agency, build community, and challenge traditional notions of literary expression.
A Community Student Poem
A Community Student Poem Continued