Why was no punctuation used in poem In the Shadow of Signal Hill?

The poem "In the Shadow of Signal Hill" by Tom Wayman, which is often cited as an example of minimalist poetry, does in fact use punctuation. However, its use is sparse and deliberate.

While the poem lacks commas, periods, and other typical punctuation, it does employ several hyphens, dashes, and even a single colon. These are used strategically to create rhythm and pace, as well as to highlight particular words and phrases.

The lack of conventional punctuation serves several purposes:

* Emphasis: By omitting commas and periods, Wayman creates a sense of uninterrupted flow, drawing attention to the raw and emotional content of the poem.

* Rhythm: The absence of punctuation, particularly periods, contributes to a sense of breathlessness and urgency, mirroring the emotional intensity of the speaker's thoughts.

* Minimalism: Wayman's deliberate choice of punctuation contributes to the minimalist style of the poem, focusing on the core ideas and emotions without excessive embellishment.

It's essential to remember that the use of punctuation, or lack thereof, is a conscious artistic decision. In "In the Shadow of Signal Hill," the careful choice of punctuation enhances the poem's overall impact and resonates with its themes of loss, memory, and the search for meaning.