Making a Fist

Naomi Shihab Nye's "Making a Fist" is a poignant poem that explores the complex relationship between a mother and child, particularly the anxieties and uncertainties of childhood.

The poem uses a first-person perspective to depict a child's fear of death and the mother's reassuring response.

It juxtaposes the child's immediate fear with the mother's wisdom and perspective, highlighting the passage of time and the enduring power of love.

The poem's imagery is vivid and evocative, creating a strong emotional connection with the reader.

It's a moving exploration of the universal themes of mortality, love, and the enduring bond between parent and child.