Review by Jasmine Kwok, 11
“Drum Dream Girl” follows the story of a young girl who chases her musical passions, despite the traditional taboos against women drumming. She lives on an island, where music brings the people together. Yet, women are expected to watch men create it. At first, the girl has to use her imagination to drum, because on the ‘island of music,’ only boys are allowed to play. As the poem progresses, the ‘booms’ become louder until she succeeds in achieving her aspiration and bettering the future, spreading the hopeful message that everyone deserves to have the opportunity to chase their dreams. It’s a classic piece of inspiration, ensuring the audience that nothing is impossible.
It is set in Cuba, and its culture is implanted within the writing: tropical vibes with the sounds of conga and bongó drums, along with timbales. It adds so much depth and flavor to the poem, as if we can envision ourselves right there with the music playing. There is stunning imagery as the girl hears rhythms within the environment surrounding her. Palm trees, parks, carnivals, parrot wings, gardens, and these vibrant aspects that give character to her home, are all included to add to the melody of the poem.
Engle sets up a very jubilant vibe and flavor, yet at the same time, contrasts this with the difficulty for the young girl to be able to play music without societal stereotypes forcing her to hide. She describes these beautiful images, like how the girl is walking through the carnival and watching the lively crowd bustle about her. However, this disappears when we realize that these dreams are merely fantasies and that society won’t let her manifest them into reality.
We continue to see her struggle, the imaginary drums growing louder as her passion grows stronger. Engle also provides a strong familial connection within the poem. Especially in a patriarchal society, having a father’s blessing is crucial. The girl’s father develops from making the claim that drumming is meant for boys, to accepting his daughter’s true wish and letting her pursue it. This is a major turning point- her talent and love for music is heard by her teacher and soon enough, by the rest of the community. The poem loops back to the garden she once passed. Only this time, she can dance and play her drums openly. It’s so empowering, not only because she’s able to achieve her dreams, but because breaking down that barrier allows other girls on the island to reach for the stars, without the fear of their hopes being meaningless.
Using onomatopoeias, imagery, and repetition, Engle takes us on a journey from the internal passions of a young girl to the external, societal impact she creates. It’s easy to follow along and envision the spirit and liveliness of the island, with music flowing through each verse. It is a heartwarming poem that encourages the youth, especially young girls, to follow their own dreams, not what others have paved out for them.