Reread this poem by Peace Corps volunteer Christopher Knapp.

Question

Sacred
You took my hand one time only:
at our parting, which surprised you.
After thousands of words and hundreds of meals
had passed, you put my hand in yours, one time.

Your hand was sandpaper, callused and rough,
fingers fixed to curl around a plow,
nails caked with dirt from morning prayers.
It felt like home against mine.

You took my hand one time only,
before I caught the bus to leave Kornaka.
You took my hand and said "my son,
remember the telephone
is sacred."

Analyze this poem's use of line breaks. (Which line breaks are most important, and what is their effect on readers?)

Answer 1

The poem "Sacred" by Christopher Knapp employs line breaks strategically to enhance its emotional impact and thematic development. Let's analyze the use of line breaks and their effects on the reader.

1. Repetition of Line Breaks: The phrase "You took my hand one time only" is repeated at the beginning and end of the poem, framed by line breaks. This repetition emphasizes the significance of that single moment and creates a sense of longing and nostalgia. The breaks allow the reader to pause and reflect on the weight of that memory, reinforcing its importance.

2. Creating Anticipation: In lines like “Your hand was sandpaper, callused and rough,” the line break following "rough" invites the reader to pause before moving on to the next thought. This pause creates anticipation, allowing the reader to absorb the tactile imagery before transitioning to the deeper emotional connection between the speaker and the hand they hold. The line break helps to highlight the contrast between the roughness of the hand and the comfort it provides, which enhances the theme of finding home in unexpected places.

3. Emotional Resonance: The line break in “You took my hand and said 'my son, / remember the telephone / is sacred.'” divides the speaker’s recollection into two parts—taking the hand and the imparting of wisdom. This separation allows the reader to linger on the affection inherent in “my son” before receiving the advice, thereby amplifying the emotional weight of the first line. The breaks create a dramatic pause that underlines the intimacy of the moment and emphasizes the gravity of the message.

4. Structural Significance: The poem's structure, particularly the use of single lines or couplets, contributes to its conversational and reflective tone. The line breaks serve to create a natural rhythm, mirroring the speaker’s thought process and the unfolding of memories. Each section feels complete and yet interconnected, guiding the reader through the journey from a shared experience to a profound lesson.

5. Finality and Reflection: The concluding lines, especially the final line that stands alone, encapsulate both the beauty and the melancholy of the poem. The space created by the line break reinforces the idea of separation—not just from the person referenced in the poem but also from that sacred moment. It invites the reader to pause and consider the impact of the memories and connections that shape our lives.

In summary, the use of line breaks in "Sacred" enhances the poem's emotional depth, allows for reflection, and underscores the themes of intimacy, memory, and the significance of communication. The breaks create a delicate balance between narrative and sentiment, drawing readers into a poignant moment that resonates long after the poem ends.