Day of the Dead and All Saints' Day

Study Notes

The poem reflects the poet’s personal experience with the Day of the Dead. The poem connects personal moments of celebration and mourning.
The Day of the Dead has a different meaning for the poet. It's not just a celebration, but a reflection of loss.
The poem emphasizes the importance of honoring the dead and acknowledging their presence.
The poet reflects on the traditions associated with the Day of the Dead, including visits to the cemetery, prayers, and favorite foods.

All Saints' Day (November 1st) is a day to remember those who died as saints and innocent children.
All Saints' Day is referred to as día de los angelitos, or the “day of the little angels.”

The second of November is the Day of the Dead, a day dedicated to remembering and celebrating the lives of all deceased loved ones.
The author suggests that it is difficult to keep track of all the people who have died, even within a single family.
There are many home altars, and the poet mentions various relatives and friends who have passed.
The poem recognizes the exhaustion associated with remembering and celebrating so many dead.

The poem contrasts the Day of the Dead with Halloween, highlighting the blending of traditions in modern times.
The poem uses imagery to connect the dead with childhood memories and a sense of nostalgia.
The author emphasizes the importance of feeding these memories and emotions through the use of food and traditions.
The poem suggests that the rituals and festivities of the Day of the Dead are a way to cope with grief.
The author suggests that the loud and colorful celebrations help to distract from the sadness and pain of loss.
The poem concludes with a focus on the importance of honoring the dead without succumbing to sadness.

Alberto Ríos is the inaugural state poet laureate of Arizona.
He won the Walt Whitman Award for his poetry collection Whispering to Fool the Wind.
He has authored many poetry collections, including the one this piece is included in, A Small Story about the Sky.