The title of the poem “Jerusalem” is loaded with historical significance. The city, located in the center of the Middle East, is an important hub of religious, economic, and political activity and conflict. Nye tells an interviewer that her father believed that, left to themselves, the different religions would have worked out their differences, but powerful factions perpetuated war and exploited religious differences to gain access to Israel’s economic and political power. In “Jerusalem,” Nye explores the tension between the impulse to engage in violence and her desire that participants “get over” their agendas and grievances. Israel becomes not only a literal setting for a real anecdote involving her father, but it also becomes an emblem for the site of human struggle in general.

Geographically, Jerusalem is located at a major confluence of Africa, Asia, and Europe, with the Mediterranean Sea on one side and an impassible desert on the other. Since ancient times, factions have warred over control of the land because of its geographical importance. Anyone who controls this land has greater access to trade routes and subsequent economic power.

Additionally, three major religions believe the city is the site of religious events central to their faith.