Observation
Brooks decides her poetry by relevance, demonstrating an affinity for writing about what she observes in front of her. In this sense, she invites her readers into her life, although the distinction between daily life and exception remains unstated. Examples of the mundane observation includes the quiet capacity of "The Bean Eaters." Brooks notices how this old couple is content to eat their simple food in silence, but she knows that they are active in their minds. They're remembering years of events -- lifetimes of interest. Perhaps an example of the more exceptional observation is "Boy Breaking Glass." Although the subject of the poem is not extraordinary, his decision to break a window is certainly cause for further consideration. This is not an event easily forgotten. The boy draws Brooks' attention to his motivation. He demonstrates a need for sufficient outlet through which to express himself, so he breaks a window for lack of attention.
Daily Lives of Renters
Renting appears to be a common theme in Brooks' poetry. Living in Chicago, this association must have been perfectly natural for her. She expands upon the nuances of renting in a big city. In "kitchenette building" she expresses the hubbub of communal life. Although she doesn't know her neighbors personally, she is deeply engaged in their daily rhythms. Their quarrels and pastimes become touchstones for Brooks. She also places "The Bean Eaters" in a diminutive rented room. As if to emphasize the old couple's personal humility, Brooks comments upon their humble living arrangements. Their lives are synchronous inside and out. To Brooks, the considerable disarray of the bean eaters' apartment is something worth noting, but she communicates this with no hint of derision. By writing about the daily lives of renters in the city, Brooks becomes a cultural touchstone, more readily accessible to the working class.
Looking Outward to Satisfying Internal Desire
Brooks' poems are characterized by her unique ability to theorize about her subjects' internal lives. She projects her own desires onto her subjects. For instance the bird in "A Light and Diplomatic Bird" becomes her messenger of pity. Although the real bird cannot express any such sympathy, he represents a friend to Brooks. She interprets his instinctive behavior as a message of hope into which she imbues all of her desire to escape from her demanding job and meager salary. Similarly, the "Boy Breaking Glass" strikes a familiar note for Brooks because she credits him with artistry. To her, this eager young kid is just like Brooks. He expresses himself because his message demands to be heard, but he lacks a proper outlet through which to do so.
