In-house Interpretations

In Dylan Garcia's "Pre-Existing Condition," a deeper exploration reveals not only the societal stigma surrounding chronic illness but also the resilient spirit that defies it. While the poem overtly discusses the challenges and prejudices faced by individuals with diabetes, a nuanced reading uncovers a subtle defiance against societal norms and a celebration of personal strength.

One key aspect of the poem lies in its use of imagery and language to portray the speaker's experience. Garcia employs vivid descriptions, such as "blood pooling at fingertips" and "ambulance wail," to evoke the visceral sensations and harsh realities of living with diabetes. However, amidst these bleak depictions, there are moments of defiance and empowerment.

For instance, the speaker's refusal to be reduced to a mere statistic is a powerful assertion of agency and individuality. Despite the overwhelming statistics of diabetes-related deaths, the speaker asserts their desire to be remembered for their resilience and courage in the face of adversity. This subtle subversion challenges the reader to view individuals with chronic illnesses not as victims but as resilient fighters.

Furthermore, the poem's structure and form contribute to its thematic resonance. The repetition of the phrase "People around me indulge," followed by the speaker's defiant response, "and be grateful for the sweet taste / it leaves on your tongue," serves as a rallying cry against societal pity and condescension. This juxtaposition of indulgence and deprivation highlights the speaker's refusal to be defined by their illness and their insistence on finding joy and meaning in life despite its challenges.

Additionally, Garcia's use of statistics from the CDC serves a dual purpose. While it highlights the grim reality of diabetes-related deaths, it also underscores the urgency of addressing the systemic issues that contribute to healthcare disparities and inequalities. By incorporating statistical data within the poetic framework, Garcia skillfully bridges the gap between personal narrative and social commentary, inviting readers to engage with the broader implications of the poem.

In conclusion, "Pre-Existing Condition" transcends its surface narrative of societal stigma to reveal a deeper exploration of resilience, agency, and defiance. Through evocative imagery, subtle subversions, and poignant reflections, Garcia crafts a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

"Pre-Existing Condition" by Dylan Garcia

Society has always made a joke

out of people like me.

Don’t eat that.

You’ll get the diabetes.

That candy was so sweet

I can feel the diabetes coming on.

To some, my life will be nothing but a cautionary tale.

About having cake and eating it

with blood pooling at fingertips.

They will scrutinize my choices and mistakes

as if the killer living inside me

stripped me of my humanity.

Being diagnosed with a chronic illness in this country

is like being issued a clock counting down the minutes

until you wake up in the back of an ambulance

you can’t afford to pay for.

Diabetes brings me to the table

but denies me any food.

People around me indulge,

then glance over at me,

their mouths so full of pity

they can’t help but frown.

According to the CDC

there were 399,401 death certificates

with diabetes listed as the underlying

or contributing cause of death in 2021.

I don’t want to be a statistic,

but I know this disease and its cruel games.

Let this body of mine and its ever-surviving

sing me praises when I am gone.

Play ambulance wail at my funeral.

Sing my doctor’s name like a dirge.

Then I ask you to go home, eat cake,

and be grateful for the sweet taste

it leaves on your tongue.