In her book Philomath, Devon Walker-Figueroa delves into the concept of a “love of learning,” which is the essence of the word ‘Philomath.’ The book, selected for the National Poetry Series in 2020, revolves around the ghost town of Philomath, where the speaker grew up, and the contrast between small-town life and the idealized meaning of the word. The speaker navigates this juxtaposition, reflecting on her experiences in the town and the interplay between one’s surroundings and identity.
Walker-Figueroa’s work mirrors the notion that a person is akin to a city, similar to William Carlos Williams’s Paterson. She portrays the internal struggle of fitting into a place that feels foreign, where even the smart kids don’t quite meet her expectations. The poems in the collection explore themes of racial identity, family dynamics, and personal growth, all set against the backdrop of a town steeped in history and contradiction.
The collection also delves into the speaker’s relationship with her deceased mother, who remains a prominent presence throughout the poems. The speaker grapples with memories, grief, and the evolving nature of her connection to her mother, who continues to influence her even in death. The town of Philomath serves as a symbolic ghost town not just of abandoned buildings but also of personal history and emotional weight.
Through evocative language and vivid imagery, Walker-Figueroa weaves a narrative that oscillates between past and present, memory and reality. The speaker’s journey to reconcile her past with her present self unfolds delicately, echoing the complexities of human experience and personal growth. The collection culminates in a poignant reflection on acceptance, loss, and the inevitability of change, encapsulating the bittersweet essence of leaving behind one’s past to embrace an uncertain future.
