Final answer:
The most pertinent word capturing the essence of Richard Blanco's poetry, given the context of similar literary works that focus on themes of personal and cultural identity, is 'Identity'. This theme is strongly reflected across various authors' works mentioned, who also explore the complexities of recognizing, understanding, and accepting one's identity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question refers to the poetry of Richard Blanco and asks which word from different lines of his poem best captures the essence of his message. Studying the themes of identity and belonging in Blanco's poetry requires a deep look into how these concepts are woven into his work. Given the context provided from various literary works, all of which explore similar themes of personal and cultural identity, and identity challenges faced by individuals, especially within the African American community, the word 'Identity' seems to encompass the core of Blanco's themes. This concept is echoed repeatedly through the references provided, as authors like Du Bois, Cullen, Wheatley, and Ellison grapple with their sense of self and their place within society.
Identity is a recurring theme in literature that is frequently explored in relation to cultural, ethnic, and social implications. Whether in the quest for self-realization seen in Du Bois's writings, Cullen's irony and reflection on cultural heritage, or Ellison's proclamation of personal freedom through self-discovery, the unifying concept is about understanding and owning one's identity. Wheatley's poetry also touches upon this theme, as it addresses the shift in her own identity being brought from Africa to America.