"We Real Cool" is a poem written by Gwendolyn Brooks in 1959. It consists of seven lines and employs a unique syntax and structure, using a series of short, choppy phrases to convey a sense of defiance and rebelliousness.
The poem is written in the first person and speaks directly to the reader, using "we" to refer to a group of young people who are presumably engaging in risky and rebellious behavior. The first line, "We real cool," sets the tone for the rest of the poem and establishes the speaker's attitude of nonchalance and detachment.
Throughout the poem, the speaker lists various activities that the group engages in, including "Sin," "Die," and "Jazz June." These phrases are all written in lowercase letters, giving the impression that these activities are not seen as important or significant by the speaker. The use of lowercase letters also adds to the sense of defiance and rebelliousness, as it goes against the traditional rules of grammar and punctuation.
The poem's final line, "We / Left school," serves as a poignant and powerful conclusion. It suggests that the speaker and the group have abandoned their education, choosing instead to pursue their own paths and engage in risky behavior. This line reinforces the theme of defiance and rebelliousness that runs throughout the poem.
Overall, "We Real Cool" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the theme of youth rebellion and nonconformity. Through its unique syntax and structure, Brooks conveys the attitudes and actions of a group of young people who are determined to live their lives on their own terms.