1. Repetition: Brathwaite uses repetition of words, phrases, and ideas to emphasize certain themes and create a sense of rhythm and incantation in the poem. For example, the line "nothing is everything" is repeated throughout the poem, highlighting the idea of duality and the coexistence of opposites.
2. Metaphors and Symbolism: Brathwaite uses rich metaphors and symbolism to evoke imagery and create a deeper layer of meaning in the poem. For instance, he compares the speaker to a "ghost in the machinery" and refers to the limbo state as a "womb of shadows," suggesting a sense of entrapment and uncertainty.
3. Allusions: Brathwaite incorporates allusions to various cultural, historical, and literary references, including the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, the African diaspora, and the Caribbean experience. These allusions add depth to the poem and invite the reader to explore different layers of interpretation.
4. Fragments and Disjointed Syntax: Brathwaite uses fragmented lines, abrupt shifts, and disjointed syntax to create a sense of disruption and disorientation, reflecting the speaker's inner turmoil and the chaotic nature of the limbo state.
5. Conversational Tone: The poem has a conversational tone, as if the speaker is directly addressing the reader or engaging in a dialogue. This conversational style creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, drawing the reader into the speaker's experience.
6. Multiple Voices: Brathwaite incorporates multiple voices and perspectives in the poem, representing the fragmented and multifaceted nature of the speaker's identity. This technique suggests a complex interplay of different voices within the individual.
7. Blend of Languages and Dialects: Brathwaite interweaves English, African languages, and Caribbean Creole dialects in the poem, reflecting the cultural diversity and linguistic richness of the Caribbean region.
By employing these techniques, Edward Kamau Brathwaite creates a complex and multi-layered poem that explores themes of identity, history, and the search for meaning amidst uncertainty.