The New Yorker: Poetry
Shane McCrae Discusses “Jim Limber in Heaven”
Nov 22, 2019
Poet Shane McCrae discusses his poetry sequence 'Jim Limber in Heaven' and its themes of adoption, loss, and identity intertwined with the mysterious history of Jim Limber. He also explores the unique structure of his book, Sometimes I Never Suffered, delving into theological themes and the influence of poetic persona and gothic sensibility in literature.
35:03
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Quick takeaways
- McCrae explores Jim Limber's historical context with the Davises, emphasizing the lack of choice in his stay.
- Personal parallels between McCrae's life and Limber's history drive emotional depth in the poems.
Deep dives
Shane McCray Introduces the Character and Story of Jim Limber
Shane McCray discusses his poetry series detailing the life of Jim Limber, a mixed-race child taken in by Varina and Jefferson Davis shortly before the Civil War's end. McCray explores the unclear historical record surrounding Limber's status with the Davises, highlighting his not having a choice in staying with them. The discussion delves into Limber's integration into the Davis family, receiving clothing from their deceased child, and his attempts to resist being separated when Union soldiers arrived at the war's end.
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