This article delves into the gendered and fluid portrayal of black sexuality in Rita Dove's poetry collection "Thomas and Biyola," challenging traditional notions of black sexuality determined by racial differences and class and gender identity. The poetry collection creates a heterogeneous field by showcasing the family history of the black middle class, promoting diverse dialogue on race, gender, and class, thereby questioning and subverting the single dimension and stereotypes of race in the writing of African American identity in the United States.

Thomas and Biyola: A Black Middle Class Family History

The work 'Thomas and Biyola' is widely regarded as an autobiographical narrative of the family history of the black middle class. Critic Susan Van Dyne pointed out that the family photo on the cover of the poetry collection symbolizes the living conditions of the black middle class, and Duff himself confirmed this. The poetry collection is based on the real life of Dafu's grandparents, but supplemented with fictional elements through artistic imagination. Dove discussed the combination of truth and fiction on multiple occasions, emphasizing that the tension between autobiography and imagination is the key to the success of the work.

Mandala Bell and Canary: Gender Roles in Black Middle Class Families

The poetry collection "Thomas and Biyola" delves into the uniqueness of black marital relationships by showcasing gender roles in middle-class African American families. Although Duff's work incorporates the "companion tradition" of African American women's literature, the marital relationship between Thomas and Biyola presents a unique temperament and attributes. The gender roles in the poetry collection run through the entire process, becoming a clue that is either explicit or implicit. Dafu revealed their gender roles, economic roles, and family status in marriage by delving into the inner worlds of the couple.

The Discourse of History: The Great Migration of Black People and the Generation of Black Middle Class Family Genealogy

Through Duff's personal family history, this study explores the impact of the Great Migration of Black people from the South to the North on the genealogy of middle-class black families in American history. The poetry collection "Thomas and Biyola" combines the protagonist's life with major historical events in 20th century America, showcasing the close connection between personal life and the course of history. Duff emphasized the profound impact of the wave of black immigration on American society, culture, politics, and economy, as well as the importance of black social mobility and class stratification, through the stories of Thomas and Biyola. At the same time, Duff provided a realistic depiction of the lives of the urban black middle class, overturning the traditional "slum model" and showcasing the dynamism of the black immigrant community, the complexity of class composition, and the diversity of urban culture. In addition, Duff also focused on how black immigrants have influenced and shaped American history and culture, emphasizing the interactive relationship between individuals and history, as well as the important role of black immigrants in shaping American culture.