Discussions
Discussions

Conversations Bureau

Conversation Topics:

Gay and Lesbian (LGBT) Studies, Literature and Poetry, 20th Century America

Conversation Learning Standards:

Language Arts 1.1, Language Arts 2.1

Brotherhood and Equality: Important Values in America and an American Poem

A Conversation by Theresa S. Edwards

Michael Lassell’s poem, "How to Watch Your Brother Die" is a narrative that explains the ways in which a straight man comes to terms with his gay brother's life and death, focusing on love, brotherhood, commitment, acceptance, and hope for equality with no boundaries of gender or sexual preference. Although written two decades ago, the poem is relevant to today's evolving American identity. It outlines the sadness and grief associated with death by AIDS; however, it also connects to the grief of today's families and communities that experience this same sadness because of stereotyping and hate. Lassell's poem serves as a catalyst for conversation about the importance of brotherhood and equality not only as American values but also as literary themes seen in a poem written by an American.

Can be tailored to a high school audience.

Documents: (click to download short text and resource list)

Theresa S. Edwards

Theresa Senato Edwards first book of poetry, Voices Through Skin, will be published June 2011 by Sibling Rivalry Press. Her second book just completed, Painting Czeslawa Kwoka ~ Honoring Children of the Holocaust, is a collaboration with Lori Schreiner. Work from this can be found online at AdmitTwo, Autumn Sky Poetry, elimae, and Trickhouse. The title piece, "Painting Czeslawa Kwoka", won the Tacenda Literary Award for Best Collaboration 2007. Theresa teaches literature and tutors writing at Marist College, is founder of Holly Rose Review, and blogs at TACSE creations: www.tacse.blogspot.com.

Location: Poughkeepsie, NY
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