On The Pulse Of Morning: ROCK

The Rock of “On the Pulse of Morning” may symbolise two ideas: one in the direction of the positive progression of humanity, and one that represents corruption in the governments featured in today's society. On one hand, the rock is the first to address the people. It invites them to climb on top of it in order to better view the future and prohibits them from hiding beneath it: “The Rock cries out to us, clearly, forcefully,/ Come, you may stand upon my/ Back and face your distant destiny”. On the other hand, the ‘Rock’ of this poem suggests that it will not aid humanity back on the right track- lacking remorse whatsoever: “seek no haven in my shadow./I will give you no hiding place down here.” The Rock proposes that one may stand on its back and face their “distant destiny”- inferring on the long way that humankind has to go to reach their ultimate ‘destiny’, but providing no help- simply alerting them of the problem. This is symbolic of governments in general, particularly those dictating the actions and rights of minorities. Previously, the rock may have been a symbol of shelter and support, whereas now- after a change in leadership, so follows the policies of non-compromise to the treachery, hatred and ignorance of minorities- such as immigrants, African Americans, and anyone excluded from the Caucasian race.

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