A Poem for My Librarian, Mrs. Long Innocence Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Line)

Quote #1

At a time when there was not tv before 3:00 P.M.
And on Sunday none until 5:00
We sat on the front porches watching
The jfg sign go on and off greeting
The neighbors (1-5)

We get a strong sense of happy nostalgia in the first few lines, as the poet speaks of a time with less distraction and lots of simple, civil interaction with neighbors.

Quote #2

There was a bookstore uptown on gay street
Which I visited and inhaled that wonderful odor
Of new books (17-18)

In some ways, this poem is a coming-of-age piece. Giovanni reflects on those wonderful experiences that shaped her adult habits in the years to come.

Quote #3

I listened
Late at night with my portable (that I was so proud of)
Tucked under my pillow (10-12)

This lovely memory of a childhood moment—when the poet could be so proud of a simple possession—helps us understand her fondness for the place and time.