"The Modern Prometheus" by JJ Kampf

JJ Kampf, in his poem "The Modern Prometheus," masterfully presents an empowered tone, alternating perspectives and simile to exemplify the power of rebellion and the allusion of Prometheus' fiery gifts to civilians. Kampf shifts back to hours before the current narrative through italics, as non-italicized segments present the events happening at a local residence. He lays the framework of children out of bed in one perspective, as "They laugh, they play, they cry." On the other hand, the parents had warned the babysitter that the kids should wear "Bedtime clothes right away, and no TV for either of them." Johnny is shown to be the modern Prometheus, as he gives the light to the children that the parents took away, or rather their rights, which is perfectly contrasted to the non-italics illustrating the parents commands. Simile is also well used, as Kampf utilizes the device to convey the extent of the children's rebellion: "Hard sour chews dangle from their mouths / like gymnasts hang from wide beams." The children are shown to be ultra-rebellious, as just like gymnasts extend themselves as far as possible, so do the children in their rebellion. Kampf beautifully writes of a modern, crafty Prometheus through his amazing allusions and deft devices.