Final answer:
Pat Mora most likely titled her poem "Fences" to symbolize the divide between tourists and those serving them, representing a broader theme of societal and emotional barriers, as seen in other literary works like Robert Frost's "Mending Wall".
Step-by-step explanation:
The most likely reason Pat Mora titled her poem "Fences" is to illustrate the divide between the tourists and those who serve them. This title metaphorically represents barriers, not just physical like the cactus fences that might be found on a property, but also social and cultural divisions. In literature, fences often symbolize separation or division, whether it be in relationships, social classes, or experiences.
For example, in Robert Frost's "Mending Wall", the fence is a central symbol for the theme of the poem, which revolves around the idea that "Good fences make good neighbours". The poem discusses the physical act of rebuilding a wall, but also dives into the deeper significance of this task and its implication on human relationships.
In the broader context of literature and artistic expression, fences can be used to portray a wide range of concepts. They might signify a desire for freedom, as in the cowboy song "Don't Fence Me In", or represent the confinement and despair felt in a detention center, such as the verses carved into the wall by detainees at Angel Island.
Therefore, when analyzing why a poet like Pat Mora would choose the title "Fences", it is important to look at how fences function as a symbol throughout various works of literature and art. They can represent societal or emotional divisions, boundaries that individuals encounter, or the barriers that need maintenance, as suggested by Frost, in human connections.