After reading the poem, We Are Mermaids, I was intrigued with the the language and descriptions used here. The relationship with the Ocean and Mermaids is clear, and it seems to be as if this poem is in the narrative of Mermaids. Not only is this poem discussing the history in the Ocean that they have, but also how they have been there “since before the beginning of tragedy.” With this introduction in the poem, I believe this narrative from the mermaids perspective is highlighting the importance of the Ocean and how it has been here since the beginning of time. Even if humans might not all recognize its rich history and importance, it is there and it is clear to the mermaids and animals who dwell in it. The Ocean is a a beautiful and scary place, which I believe this poem highlights very well. Not only does it emphasize how the Ocean is “life giving” but also how animals and creatures thrive in its mystery, and humans would not be able to. It is hard for humans to understand or appreciate something they cannot connect or relate their history too, a common theme that we have searched in this class. It is hard to want to protect something history when it is not your own, which is what I believe this poem is discussing. Humans cannot appreciate the Ocean the same way mermaids or creatures might, because our history is terrestrial based. I believe this poem is pondering this idea, but also trying to help us explore the Oceans history, or help us see why we might not relate to it, and why we should. This poem was short, but it held a lot of meaning. One line that really stood out to me was “We know the consistent waves, as they ride fortunes helical gears, sacrificing their poise for their careers, need not be the only mode of living.” This could be interpreted in many ways, but I read this as how the Ocean brings and gives so much life to those who dwell in it. The creatures who do, do not take or abuse this gift, as us humans often do on land and abusing its resources. I felt this poem was a great way to emphasize a different narrative and how the Ocean, as we all know now, has a ancient and rich history.