Throughout the poem, Hemphill emphasizes the importance of commitment in a relationship. He writes about how two people can come together and make a commitment to each other, despite the hardships that may arise. He also addresses the idea of fidelity and the need for trust between partners.
In the poem, the speaker also discusses the concept of "the other" and how this can affect a relationship. He explores the idea of how one person can be both a source of comfort and a source of pain in a relationship. He also expresses the idea that even in the midst of difficulty, there can still be beauty and growth in a relationship.
Ultimately, "Commitments" is a poem about the complexities of love, commitment, and relationships. Hemphill uses vivid imagery and metaphors to explore the many facets of these topics and conveys the power of love and the strength of commitment between two people.