The chosen artwork is a short story/poem titled “Gate A-4,” authored by Naomi Shihab Nye. Born in 1952 to a Palestinian father and an American mother, Nye draws from her diverse cultural experiences in crafting her literary works. According to the Academy of American Poets (n.d.), Nye’s poetry encapsulates her Arab American experience, delving into themes of heritage and peace with a strong humanitarian spirit. This analysis explores the narrative and underlying meaning of Nye’s “Gate A-4.”

Gate A-4

“Gate A-4” narrates the experience of a woman traveling from an Albuquerque airport to El Paso, Texas. While awaiting her flight, an announcement requesting Arabic speakers at Gate A-4 prompts her to approach. There, she encounters a distraught woman in traditional Palestinian attire. The protagonist, understanding Arabic, comforts and informs her about a flight delay due to a medical procedure the Palestinian woman needs. The two form an instant connection, and the protagonist stays with her, sharing homemade mamool cookies. The story evolves into a poem, highlighting acts of kindness, shared snacks, and a sense of unity among diverse women at the gate.

HUM FPX 1150 Assessment 2 Comparative Analysis and Reflection

Cultural Values

Nye incorporates cultural values such as language, food, and traditions in “Gate A-4.” Language plays a pivotal role, as the language barrier causes distress until another woman assists by translating. The sharing of mamool cookies symbolizes the unifying power of food, emphasizing its ability to bring people together irrespective of cultural differences. Additionally, Nye introduces the tradition of carrying a plant as a symbol of staying rooted to one’s heritage and traditions.

Cultural Perspective

Personally, this narrative resonates with my experiences growing up in a multicultural family. My grandmother, much like the Palestinian woman in the story, faced language barriers, and the depiction of a stranger providing assistance brings a sense of comfort. The communal sharing of food, reminiscent of my family’s gatherings, underscores the universal role of food in fostering connections across diverse backgrounds.

References

About Naomi Shihab Nye | Academy of American Poets. (n.d.). Poets.org. Retrieved from https://poets.org/poet/naomi-shihab-nye

Belle, J. (2020). How Food Brings People Together — Julia Belle’s Seasonings. Julia Belle’s Seasonings. Retrieved from https://juliabelles.com/blog/how-food-brings-people-together

Shihab Nye, N. (2008). Gate A-4 by Naomi Shihab Nye – Poems | Academy of American Poets. Poets.org. Retrieved from https://poets.org/poem/gate-4.

HUM FPX 1150 Assessment 2 Comparative Analysis and Reflection