The Power of Letting Go in Alice Walker's 'Expect Nothing'

The poem "Expect Nothing" by Alice Walker is an insightful piece that speaks to the power of letting go of expectations. Through her lyrical words, Walker encourages her readers to embrace life fully and without reservation. In this essay, I will provide a comprehensive analysis of the poem, using well-researched evidence and reputable sources to support my arguments.

As a college student, I am all too familiar with the pressure to set expectations and work diligently towards achieving them. Whether it's getting straight A's, landing the perfect job, or finding the right partner, we are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us to strive for more. While ambition is certainly laudable, there is a danger in becoming too focused on outcomes.

In "Expect Nothing," Walker reminds us of the beauty and power of letting go of expectations. She writes:

"Expect nothing. Live frugally
on surprise."

At first glance, this may seem like a defeatist attitude. After all, shouldn't we be striving for greatness in all aspects of our lives? However, Walker's words hold a deeper meaning. She is not suggesting that we should stop working towards our goals. Instead, she is encouraging us to let go of the outcomes and embrace the journey.

This idea is backed up by scientific research. In a study published by the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, researchers found that individuals who set too many expectations for themselves were more likely to experience negative emotions such as disappointment and frustration. On the other hand, those who were more adaptable and able to let go of their expectations were happier overall.

Walker's poem continues with the lines:

"Make a last supper, chat a little,
and Moses in the bulrushes.
Lean forward, tiptoe
try to hear what
God is saying."

These words paint a vivid picture of living in the moment and embracing the unknown. The reference to Moses in the bulrushes is particularly poignant, as it reminds us of the importance of taking risks and trusting in a higher power.

Additionally, the line "Make a last supper" could be seen as a metaphor for living each day to the fullest. Instead of constantly looking towards the future, focusing on what we don't have, we should be grateful for what we do have in this moment. This sentiment is echoed in the research of psychologists such as Dr. Robert Emmons, who has found that practicing gratitude leads to increased happiness and well-being.

In the final stanza of "Expect Nothing," Walker writes:

"Bow when you have to. carry what you must
and be grateful when
Love is over all."

These lines encapsulate the theme of the entire poem. We must bow to the inevitability of life's challenges, carry the burdens we are given, and be grateful for the love that surrounds us. By letting go of expectations and embracing the present moment, we can find true contentment and peace.

In conclusion, "Expect Nothing" by Alice Walker is a powerful poem that speaks to the importance of letting go of expectations and living in the moment. Through her lyrical words, Walker encourages us to embrace the unknown and trust in a higher power. This sentiment is backed up by scientific research, which shows that individuals who are adaptable and able to let go of expectations are happier overall. As college students, it is important for us to keep this message in mind as we navigate the challenges of higher education and plan for our futures. By embracing the present moment and detaching from outcomes, we can find true contentment and fulfillment.