Evolution: A Reflection on the Creation of an Epic Poem

Abstract

Evolution, the second part of the original epic poem Americano: A Profane Comedy, charts the internal and external journey of a Harvard dropout across the country on the cusp of the COVID-19 pandemic. While this poem maps the spiritual and ethical progress of the poet, Evolution is also deeply critical of the concept of progress or evolution and requires the reader to sort out for themself what’s right and wrong. This reflection on Evolution and its creation discusses the influences and inspirations behind the project as well as a close analysis of the genre of the epic poem and the original rhyme and meter scheme developed specifically for this composition. Evolution is a quest to reinvigorate and reimagine not only modern American poetry and literature but also America itself: a journey that invites in all who read or hear it and offers to them transformation.