Song for a Spent 100w Bulb: Poet & Context

About Jacob Sam-La Rose

Jacob Sam-La Rose is a Guyanese-British poet, editor, and educator known for his exploration of identity, community and the capacity for transformation.
His work is more centrally located in the performance poetry realm, favouring its dynamic cadence and conceptual strength to deliver his messages.
“Breaking Silence”, his widely acclaimed collection of work, includes “Song for a Spent 100w Bulb”. This collection explores the themes of silence, voice, and the power of language.
Sam-La Rose’s work often interrogates the potential of the ordinary and mundane to possess deeper significance—this is particularly evident in “Song for a Spent 100w Bulb”.

“Song for a Spent 100w Bulb”: Cultural and Historical Context

Set in a context where environmental consciousness and the transition to sustainable energy sources are topical, the poem nudges the reader to acknowledge the integral role even a simple light bulb plays in our lives.
The depiction of the bulb as spent and wasted invites reflection on the circular nature of consumption and the issues of disposability in modern society, underscoring the importance of sustainability.

Connection to Other Works

Similar to other poems by Sam-La Rose, “Song for a Spent 100w Bulb” integrates the personal with the communal and universal, using specific, small-scale images to pilot broader discussions.
The focus on mundane objects and ordinary experiences is a recurring motif in Sam-La Rose’s work, as seen in “Sestina for a Minicab Driver” or “A Choreographer Considers the Rave”.
Studying this poem in conjunction with other works by Sam-La Rose can provide a more profound understanding of his poetic vision and its relevance to contemporary society.

Remember: Delving into the poet’s background and the cultural and historical context will help appreciate the depth and nuance of “Song for a Spent 100w Bulb”. Similarly, understanding the connections and common themes linking the poem to Sam-La Rose’s other works can enrich your analysis and understanding of his unique perspective.