In the book Syncope, Asiya Wadud mourns the seventy-two African migrants who tried to escape Tripoli on March 27, 2011, during the Libyan uprising. Their boat lacked fuel to reach Lampedusa, and after contacting authorities for help, they were left adrift. With no aid in sight, the migrants faced death due to starvation and dehydration. Wadud uses poetry to explore this tragic event, highlighting the failure of organizations to act ethically and challenging the narrative that dismisses responsibility.
The poem draws on historical elegies by African American poets as well as contemporary voices addressing social injustices. Wadud’s work aims to restore dignity to the migrants and shed light on the complexities of their plight. The book delves into the constraints faced by people of color, offering a multifaceted exploration of the refugee crisis. Additionally, Syncope integrates references and discussions that expand on the themes presented in the poem.
Formally, Syncope is structured as one continuous poem, incorporating elements of repetition and varied linguistic devices to convey the emotional and factual layers of the migrants’ story. Through evocative language and imagery, Wadud underscores the betrayal of humanity in the face of suffering and neglect. The poem challenges readers to confront the moral implications of witnessing tragedy without taking action.
Ultimately, Syncope serves as a poignant tribute to the migrants lost at sea, emphasizing their shared humanity and resilience in the face of adversity. Wadud’s lyrical exploration captures the essence of survival and remembrance, honoring the memory of those who perished while reaffirming their enduring legacy.
