There is something about sugarcane He isn’t what he seem
-- The Speaker (Lines 1-4)

Importance: In the poem's opening lines, the speaker insinuates that there is hidden depth to the sugarcane plant. The sibilance in these lines contributes to the sense of mystery. Leaving out the "-s" ending in the word "seem" shows a regional way of speaking and contributes to the speaker's voice.

his waving arms is a sign for help
-- The Speaker (Lines 7-8)

Importance: Here, the speaker imagines that the movement of the sugarcane (perhaps waving in the wind) is actually a plea for help despite its tough and sharp exterior. The sugarcane takes on a deeper significance as a metaphor for the enslaved people forced to tend to the plant. Again, the use of "is" instead of "are" shows a particular colloquial way of speaking, further evoking the voice of the Caribbean speaker.

His colour is the aura of jaundice when he ripe
-- The Speaker (Lines 13-16)

Importance: Jaundice is...