Answer:
"Dichotomies" refer to contrasts or oppositions between two things or concepts. It is a literary device that is commonly used in poetry to create tension or highlight themes.
In the novel "The Poet X" by Elizabeth Acevedo, there are several dichotomies that play a significant role in the story. Here are some examples:
Silence vs. Voice: The main character, Xiomara, struggles with finding her voice and speaking up for herself. She is often silenced by her mother's strict religious beliefs and her own fear of judgment. Throughout the novel, Xiomara learns to embrace her voice and use it to express herself through poetry.
Tradition vs. Modernity: Xiomara's parents are immigrants from the Dominican Republic and hold onto their traditional values and customs. Xiomara, on the other hand, is a first-generation American who is influenced by modern American culture. This clash between tradition and modernity creates tension in Xiomara's relationships with her parents.