Summary: Using the functions of a remote control, Alicia Zakon tells the story of a woman who is stuck between wanting to be in love and wanting to be free.
This poem is very interesting because it is taking an object and using it to describe a girl's problem. I love the way the poet includes each part of a remote control and connects it to the girl she's speaking of's life. This title fits the poem very well because it's a poem about domestic violence(more specifically control) and many teen or even adult girls/women can relate. The silence behind it is good because it causes the listener to give the piece undivided attention. The best part of this piece is the ending line where she says to take control of your life, take hold of the remote and press play...love it!
Right from the first line, "Why you let him play you like a video?" Alicia’s voice grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. When I first read the description of the piece, I was afraid it might sound gimmicky. But Alicia found a way to make the metaphor work. She not only describes the problems found in some relationships, but sends a message of emancipation. It’s perfect for any show that wishes to explore a young women's perspective on physical and emotional abuse. The writing is powerful, but what I loved most was her voice, so natural and effortless yet strong. The rhythm and cadence of her delivery only adds to the piece. I’m not surprised it aired nationally.
I love the use of poetry, it a pefect way to tell your story, I like the creativy you used, by using the fuctions of a remote control to explain to the listener, what was happening. You have a wonderful insight..keep doing what you do
Poet Alicia Zakon's ode to self-determination is a perfect fit for Poetry Month or any program examinging power in relationships and/or domestic violence.
Describing power in a relationship as a metaphorical remote control passed between the two parties, Zakon says:
Why you let him play you like a video?
Turn you on and off like a radio?
Tell YOU when to go
fast and slow?
Change you channels 'cause he can't stand your show?
Comments for Remote Control
Produced by Youth Radio
Other pieces by Youth Radio
Rating Summary
4 comments
sasha smith
Posted on July 26, 2005 at 11:30 AM | Permalink
Review of Remote Control
This poem is very interesting because it is taking an object and using it to describe a girl's problem. I love the way the poet includes each part of a remote control and connects it to the girl she's speaking of's life. This title fits the poem very well because it's a poem about domestic violence(more specifically control) and many teen or even adult girls/women can relate. The silence behind it is good because it causes the listener to give the piece undivided attention. The best part of this piece is the ending line where she says to take control of your life, take hold of the remote and press play...love it!
Dulce Maria Mora
Posted on April 21, 2005 at 11:57 AM | Permalink
Review of Remote Control
Right from the first line, "Why you let him play you like a video?" Alicia’s voice grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. When I first read the description of the piece, I was afraid it might sound gimmicky. But Alicia found a way to make the metaphor work. She not only describes the problems found in some relationships, but sends a message of emancipation. It’s perfect for any show that wishes to explore a young women's perspective on physical and emotional abuse. The writing is powerful, but what I loved most was her voice, so natural and effortless yet strong. The rhythm and cadence of her delivery only adds to the piece. I’m not surprised it aired nationally.
Warren Polk
Posted on March 28, 2005 at 02:08 PM | Permalink
Review of Remote Control
I love the use of poetry, it a pefect way to tell your story, I like the creativy you used, by using the fuctions of a remote control to explain to the listener, what was happening. You have a wonderful insight..keep doing what you do
Kerry Seed
Posted on March 25, 2005 at 06:31 AM | Permalink
Review of Remote Control
Poet Alicia Zakon's ode to self-determination is a perfect fit for Poetry Month or any program examinging power in relationships and/or domestic violence.
Describing power in a relationship as a metaphorical remote control passed between the two parties, Zakon says:
Why you let him play you like a video? Turn you on and off like a radio? Tell YOU when to go fast and slow? Change you channels 'cause he can't stand your show?