Structure and Language:
The poem consists of four stanzas, with each stanza containing four lines. The language used is simple, direct, and conversational. Wright employs short, choppy sentences and fragmented syntax to convey a sense of urgency and frustration.
Setting:
The poem is set in a poor neighborhood, possibly during the Great Depression. The protagonist is a young boy who is struggling to survive amidst poverty and hunger.
Protagonist and Conflict:
The protagonist of the poem is a young boy who is desperately hungry. He finds a rib sandwich discarded in the alley and decides to eat it, despite its unappetizing appearance. This act of desperation and hunger highlights the boy's impoverished condition.
Symbolism:
The rib sandwich becomes a symbol of poverty, hunger, and social neglect. The boy's consumption of the sandwich represents his desperate attempt to satisfy his basic needs, even if it comes at the cost of his dignity.
Dehumanization:
Through the boy's experience, Wright portrays the dehumanizing effects of poverty. The boy is reduced to a state where he feels compelled to eat a discarded sandwich, symbolizing the loss of human dignity and respect in the face of extreme poverty.
Social commentary:
The poem serves as a social commentary on the harsh realities of poverty and the injustices faced by marginalized individuals in society. Wright's portrayal of the boy's struggle highlights the need for compassion and understanding towards those living in poverty.