Poetry Analysis

Imagining a Bullet

Priscila Uppal

Pretending to Die (p. 18)

"Before the invention of guns

it was possible to kill

by shutting one eye

and aiming for the heart"

This poem is referring to the fragility of of human emotions and convictions, and it points out the folly of human logic. Arrows instead of bullets.

I think this is a very valuable poem that delivers a unique message. This poem could adopt many different meanings to different people with a variety of experiences and beliefs. I liked the imagery of closing an eye and aiming for the heart because I immediately thought of looking someone in the eye as you reveal personal opinions or beliefs. You don't have to aim for someone else's heart. It can be your own.