Analysis of four poems by Elizabeth Alexander: Race, Emancipation, African Leave-Taking Disorder, Marcus Garvey on Elocution

The paper explores the significance of Elizabeth Alexander's inaugural poem, "Praise Song For The Day," delivered during Barack Obama's 2009 inauguration. It highlights the rarity and importance of including poetry in presidential ceremonies, noting that only a few presidents have embraced this tradition. The analysis acknowledges both praise and criticism of Alexander's work, emphasizing her status as a prominent African-American poet. The paper reflects on how this event introduced the author to Alexander's contributions to contemporary American poetry.