Wade in the Water: Poems Summary
Smith, Tracy K.

Wade in the Water: Poems Overview

Tracy K. Smith’s poetry collection Wade in the Water draws on historical documents, contemporary events, and scenes of the everyday to examine the undercurrents of American life. Smith uses found poetry, erasure poetry, and collage techniques to juxtapose different realities and give voice to neglected people both past and present. The collection explores themes of racism, national identity, violence, environmental destruction, and capitalist greed, but it also offers hope through themes of family, memory, connection, and transcendent love.