"I hope to see my Pilot face to face when I have crossed the bar." -"Crossing the Bar" by Alfred, Lord Tennyson
"Crossing the Bar" consists of mostly imagery and symbols to explain the quest in which the speaker is embroiled. I believe the bar is a "point of no return" in regards to life, which is interesting. In life we always have the choice to turn back regardless of the consequences. However, most of the poem is referring to death. The imagery used to associate death is somewhat peculiar though. The speaker explains her hope of the "flood may bear me far," indicating that there is some sort of furthur jouney awaiting him or her. I believe the bourne of Time and Place may be a symbol of God as he is our determination of the afterlife. The tone is also an important part of this poem. Of course death brings a negative connotation, but Tennyson puts a unique spin on it. Death is described as an endeavor into the seas. The seas are unpredictable, turbulent, and ruthless. Yet, the speaker has an almost certain faith that he/she will meet her maker in the unpredicatable afterlife.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
To His Coy Mistress
"That long-preserved virginity, and your quaint honor turn to dust,..." -"To His Coy Mistress" by Andrew Marvell
The interpretations with this poem are numerous and intriguing. It seems simple to understand but it leaves me with deeper questions and observations regarding style. Along the lines of the chapter emphasis, I feel that the tone is sincere love but it is punctuated by a pleading sense of urgency. The speaker sees some kind of fork in the road that his lover does not and acts on it. Of course after reading this work, I wondered why the mistress is acting coy, or reluctant. I believe it is a combination of several factors. She is in the common predicament of choosing to commit to a relationship versus remaining unattatched and shielding herself from hurt. Also, the quote above gives an explanation in regards to her lack of affection. This could be her first genuine love and she feels a need to preserve her state of purity. She has made a conscious choice to act morally above the rest and cherishes that reputation more than her prospective happiness with her lover. That brings up the question of why this man holds so much hope for the future. Does he actually see them having kids together, much less a future? I think the answer lies with the reader and their own hope of love.
The interpretations with this poem are numerous and intriguing. It seems simple to understand but it leaves me with deeper questions and observations regarding style. Along the lines of the chapter emphasis, I feel that the tone is sincere love but it is punctuated by a pleading sense of urgency. The speaker sees some kind of fork in the road that his lover does not and acts on it. Of course after reading this work, I wondered why the mistress is acting coy, or reluctant. I believe it is a combination of several factors. She is in the common predicament of choosing to commit to a relationship versus remaining unattatched and shielding herself from hurt. Also, the quote above gives an explanation in regards to her lack of affection. This could be her first genuine love and she feels a need to preserve her state of purity. She has made a conscious choice to act morally above the rest and cherishes that reputation more than her prospective happiness with her lover. That brings up the question of why this man holds so much hope for the future. Does he actually see them having kids together, much less a future? I think the answer lies with the reader and their own hope of love.
Language and Paradox
"And thee, feigned vestal, in worse arms shall see; Then thy sick taper will begin to wink,..." -"The Apparition" by John Donne
Save "Hazel tells LaVerne," most of the poems are written in learned language. Many of them used words I had never heard of that carried their own connotations. Therefore the diction, or language of writing, benefits a reader who can interpret the educated comparisons which each poem presents. When I researched these words I found that many of them were descriptive explanations of the characteristics or types of people presented in the poems. I included the line above because it is a prime example of the use of diction to present a paradox. In this case, the educated paradox serves to take the edge off the insult which the reader can infer from the meanings of the words. "Feigned" means fake and "vestal" is a virgin. So basically the speaker is playing out his ridicule and revenge through cleverly masked put-downs. I think these sometimes unknown words can often be attention-grabbing techniques. They prompt the reader to get a better understanding of the plot and consequently a better understanding of other aspects like tone and theme.
Save "Hazel tells LaVerne," most of the poems are written in learned language. Many of them used words I had never heard of that carried their own connotations. Therefore the diction, or language of writing, benefits a reader who can interpret the educated comparisons which each poem presents. When I researched these words I found that many of them were descriptive explanations of the characteristics or types of people presented in the poems. I included the line above because it is a prime example of the use of diction to present a paradox. In this case, the educated paradox serves to take the edge off the insult which the reader can infer from the meanings of the words. "Feigned" means fake and "vestal" is a virgin. So basically the speaker is playing out his ridicule and revenge through cleverly masked put-downs. I think these sometimes unknown words can often be attention-grabbing techniques. They prompt the reader to get a better understanding of the plot and consequently a better understanding of other aspects like tone and theme.
Mood and Motivation
"And then, poor aspen wretch, neglected, thou, bathed in a cold quicksilver sweat, wilt lie a verier ghost than I." -"The Apparition" by John Donne
The tone of a poem is usually implied, but much can be gathered from a speaker or character's thoughts and actions. Throughout most of these poems, either the speaker's actions or descriptions of others through diction give a fair indication of their attitude and the tone they hope to get across. Poems such as "The Apparition" give detailed example after example that tend to convey the speaker's general dissatisfaction with the depth of love he normally engages in. Many times the attitude is directed at characters within the poem, but other times it addresses society, and therefore the reader, as a whole. "Dover Beach" is similar to this style as it addresses a person close to the speaker while giving historical context to the happenings at that beach over time. Just as in life, the motive for a person's action or thought can convey the attitude they hold towards the matter. "Getting Out" serves this example because the speaker dialogues about the souring of the marriage but by the end the reader knows that his tone is regretful and nostalgic by the thoughts and actions in the last several lines. The familiar adage of "actions greater than words" holds true in this sense.
The tone of a poem is usually implied, but much can be gathered from a speaker or character's thoughts and actions. Throughout most of these poems, either the speaker's actions or descriptions of others through diction give a fair indication of their attitude and the tone they hope to get across. Poems such as "The Apparition" give detailed example after example that tend to convey the speaker's general dissatisfaction with the depth of love he normally engages in. Many times the attitude is directed at characters within the poem, but other times it addresses society, and therefore the reader, as a whole. "Dover Beach" is similar to this style as it addresses a person close to the speaker while giving historical context to the happenings at that beach over time. Just as in life, the motive for a person's action or thought can convey the attitude they hold towards the matter. "Getting Out" serves this example because the speaker dialogues about the souring of the marriage but by the end the reader knows that his tone is regretful and nostalgic by the thoughts and actions in the last several lines. The familiar adage of "actions greater than words" holds true in this sense.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Chapter Theme: Tone
"But now I only hear its melancholy, long, withdrawing roar, retreating..." -"Dover Beach" by Matthew Arnold
With the chapter emphasis on tone, the importance with each poem was to find the speaker's and author's attitude towards the characters or institutions discussed. Because these poems are from a more educated and scholarly set of authors, the emotions did not explicitly appear through punctuation or direct description of events. Instead they were hinted at with metaphors and understatement. In poems like "To his Coy Mistress" and "The Apparition," I think it helps for the reader to put him/herself in the position of the speaker. I could much more easily figure out the attitude of the speaker towards his lover in each of these poems because I have experienced hints of these emotions before. Many of us are also well versed in normal human reaction to these situations. The author assumes we have an idea of how a normal person would react and uses the assumption to indicate the tone. I believe the tone is also established in many of the poems by including the reader in the plot. The authors use "we" and "us", even though they may be talking to a person not present, to make the interpretation more personal.
With the chapter emphasis on tone, the importance with each poem was to find the speaker's and author's attitude towards the characters or institutions discussed. Because these poems are from a more educated and scholarly set of authors, the emotions did not explicitly appear through punctuation or direct description of events. Instead they were hinted at with metaphors and understatement. In poems like "To his Coy Mistress" and "The Apparition," I think it helps for the reader to put him/herself in the position of the speaker. I could much more easily figure out the attitude of the speaker towards his lover in each of these poems because I have experienced hints of these emotions before. Many of us are also well versed in normal human reaction to these situations. The author assumes we have an idea of how a normal person would react and uses the assumption to indicate the tone. I believe the tone is also established in many of the poems by including the reader in the plot. The authors use "we" and "us", even though they may be talking to a person not present, to make the interpretation more personal.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
God, america, i
"next to of course god america i love you land of the pilgrims..." -"next to of course god america i" by E.E. Cummings
As the most challenging and thought provoking poem of the set, this one definitely deserves its own post. I tried to follow the guidelines of the questions which seemed to help in the interpretation. The information in quotations is a speech. If the speaker makes a deliberate point to explain that God is before country then he must be talking to a gathering of religious people. He is possibly a pastor talking to his congregation. Cummings uses "thy" to refer to the founders of our country because it fits the time period. He and his audience have a closer relationship to God and therefore use "your glorious name." I had a difficult time reasoning if the speaker is satirizing patriotism or speaking literally as a response to an event (more on that later.) I figured that in a not-so-tactful way the speaker uses clues such as "happy" and "rushed like lions" to suggest that the men who died were conscious of their fate. Instead of acting tentative and defiant, these men were like lions in that they went down with glory and dignity. On the contrary, I believe Cummings is question this mindset. Finally I reach the last question, which could be the most important in regards to the reason for the entire quoted paragraph. The speaker and his listeners have indirectly experienced an event (likely war?) which has called on their motivation and resolve. The last line of the speech asks a question and then it says the speaker drinks quickly. He is most likely pausing for another rallying dialogue in which these people are told what they can do. Of course the voice of liberty will not be mute because he believes in a republic that has endured for "centuries come and go."
As the most challenging and thought provoking poem of the set, this one definitely deserves its own post. I tried to follow the guidelines of the questions which seemed to help in the interpretation. The information in quotations is a speech. If the speaker makes a deliberate point to explain that God is before country then he must be talking to a gathering of religious people. He is possibly a pastor talking to his congregation. Cummings uses "thy" to refer to the founders of our country because it fits the time period. He and his audience have a closer relationship to God and therefore use "your glorious name." I had a difficult time reasoning if the speaker is satirizing patriotism or speaking literally as a response to an event (more on that later.) I figured that in a not-so-tactful way the speaker uses clues such as "happy" and "rushed like lions" to suggest that the men who died were conscious of their fate. Instead of acting tentative and defiant, these men were like lions in that they went down with glory and dignity. On the contrary, I believe Cummings is question this mindset. Finally I reach the last question, which could be the most important in regards to the reason for the entire quoted paragraph. The speaker and his listeners have indirectly experienced an event (likely war?) which has called on their motivation and resolve. The last line of the speech asks a question and then it says the speaker drinks quickly. He is most likely pausing for another rallying dialogue in which these people are told what they can do. Of course the voice of liberty will not be mute because he believes in a republic that has endured for "centuries come and go."
Apostrophe and Allegory
"Divorce me, untie or break that knot again,..." -"Batter my heart, three-personed God" by John Donne
Most of the poems this chapter have an intended subject and audience to which they speak. What I realized was that the subjects were much furthur away from the speaker than someone who is engaging in personal diaglogue. The speaker talks about something that is not present or something spiritual. At times, like in "Sorting Laundry," the subject is both far away and represented by another object. The reason for the separation is that distance makes emotion stronger. The speaker in that poem would probably not be as gushy and overdramatic if they were right next to one another. "Batter my heart, three-personed God" addresses God and faith but the distance between God's salvation and the speaker's bleak reality causes a strain on hope and faith. Even "Ozymandias" addresses an acient king. The time is the separation and the stern visage of the sculpture is no longer as menacing as it once was. Distance gets the theme across but does not allow for overindulgence into emotion, which could cover up the meaning.
Most of the poems this chapter have an intended subject and audience to which they speak. What I realized was that the subjects were much furthur away from the speaker than someone who is engaging in personal diaglogue. The speaker talks about something that is not present or something spiritual. At times, like in "Sorting Laundry," the subject is both far away and represented by another object. The reason for the separation is that distance makes emotion stronger. The speaker in that poem would probably not be as gushy and overdramatic if they were right next to one another. "Batter my heart, three-personed God" addresses God and faith but the distance between God's salvation and the speaker's bleak reality causes a strain on hope and faith. Even "Ozymandias" addresses an acient king. The time is the separation and the stern visage of the sculpture is no longer as menacing as it once was. Distance gets the theme across but does not allow for overindulgence into emotion, which could cover up the meaning.
How Ironic
"'Please don't write such depressing letters. Your're upsetting your mother.'" -"APO 96225" by Larry Rottmann
Because the chapter is based on figurative language, a majority of the poems use irony to get their point across. A good amount of them are criticizing something in society through this irony. This is most apparent in "Ozymandias" and "Barbie Doll." The speaker describes a figure who starts out with one appearance or nature and transforms into something diferent. By the end it sounds like the speaker is not surprised by the outcome; it is merely a appropriate end to a story. For this reason, the distinction between author and speaker in some ironic works is important to understand. The speaker wants the progression to sound normal while the author uses that tone to specifically point out characteristics of the characters or situations. Piercy certainly does not think a woman with plastic surgery and years of torment is a happy ending, but she has the speaker talk like it is to draw attention to the issue. The E.E. Cummings poem uses some of the same techniques. Cummings urges his audience to not worry, essentially spelling out the tragedy of patriotic death for any citizen. Cummings probably wants readers to question their loyalty to any governing power which is inevitably corrupt and crumbling.
Because the chapter is based on figurative language, a majority of the poems use irony to get their point across. A good amount of them are criticizing something in society through this irony. This is most apparent in "Ozymandias" and "Barbie Doll." The speaker describes a figure who starts out with one appearance or nature and transforms into something diferent. By the end it sounds like the speaker is not surprised by the outcome; it is merely a appropriate end to a story. For this reason, the distinction between author and speaker in some ironic works is important to understand. The speaker wants the progression to sound normal while the author uses that tone to specifically point out characteristics of the characters or situations. Piercy certainly does not think a woman with plastic surgery and years of torment is a happy ending, but she has the speaker talk like it is to draw attention to the issue. The E.E. Cummings poem uses some of the same techniques. Cummings urges his audience to not worry, essentially spelling out the tragedy of patriotic death for any citizen. Cummings probably wants readers to question their loyalty to any governing power which is inevitably corrupt and crumbling.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Ozymandias
"Two vast and trunkless legs of stone stand in the desert..." -"Ozymandias" by Percy Bysshe Shelley
This poem uses some common devices found in previous poems. I first focused in on the imagery which it provides. He talks about the "shattered visage" and "cold command" to give life to an inanimate object. In this way the sculpture is personified throughout the entire poem. A line that confused me was the one that stated, "The hand that mocked them and the heart that fed;" I feel as though the mocking hand could be the people who eventually led to the great king's downfall. Obviously they would be mocking if he had raised himself to the level in which the poem indicated he did. The heart is a bit more puzzling. The excerpt is referring to the passions which the sculptor recreated in the sculpture. When I think of vaingloriousness, I usually associate it with the mind. It is the mind that created the inflated ego. I suppose the heart symbolism indicates he usually acted on pure emotion rather than reason. The quote was another detail I believe the author included on purpose. He describes a "trunkless," or torso-less, sculpture with only the legs and head remaining. I think it is interesting that the thing that caused his ultimate demise, his head or ego, is still there and his legs to stand on are still there. The body is missing because his enemies took the body- they killed the man by stopping his vital organs in his body. The rest remains as a reminder of the inevitability of collapse of a passion-fed regime.
This poem uses some common devices found in previous poems. I first focused in on the imagery which it provides. He talks about the "shattered visage" and "cold command" to give life to an inanimate object. In this way the sculpture is personified throughout the entire poem. A line that confused me was the one that stated, "The hand that mocked them and the heart that fed;" I feel as though the mocking hand could be the people who eventually led to the great king's downfall. Obviously they would be mocking if he had raised himself to the level in which the poem indicated he did. The heart is a bit more puzzling. The excerpt is referring to the passions which the sculptor recreated in the sculpture. When I think of vaingloriousness, I usually associate it with the mind. It is the mind that created the inflated ego. I suppose the heart symbolism indicates he usually acted on pure emotion rather than reason. The quote was another detail I believe the author included on purpose. He describes a "trunkless," or torso-less, sculpture with only the legs and head remaining. I think it is interesting that the thing that caused his ultimate demise, his head or ego, is still there and his legs to stand on are still there. The body is missing because his enemies took the body- they killed the man by stopping his vital organs in his body. The rest remains as a reminder of the inevitability of collapse of a passion-fed regime.
Barbie Doll
"Her good nature wore out, like a fan belt." -"Barbie Doll" by Marge Piercy
I saw many similarities to last chapter's "Pink Dog" in this poem. First of all, it is set up in a satire so that the cause of the subject's actions are blamed on society. The girl is complimented and acknowledged by the speaker but eventually the tone shifts to her indadequacies. Eventually she gets to a point at which it is absolutely nescessary she change her physical nature or suffer greatly. I inlcuded the quote above because it is a common occurance in today's society. We all have ideals and morals we strive to live up to. However, the test of time eventually wears on us. The fan belt kept her from becoming overly influenced by emotion due to her appearance. This wore out and she was left to abandon her ideals. I was also intrigued by the line about how she "offered them up," referring to her old physical features. It could be thought of as merely ridding herself of their curse, but I think it is used to display her regret. She is asking forgiveness for giving in to the belief that her body will always be adequate.
Regardless of looks, we all have parts of our inner selves we need fixed. I don't think we can ever repair something completely like the poem suggests, but over time we make it better.
I saw many similarities to last chapter's "Pink Dog" in this poem. First of all, it is set up in a satire so that the cause of the subject's actions are blamed on society. The girl is complimented and acknowledged by the speaker but eventually the tone shifts to her indadequacies. Eventually she gets to a point at which it is absolutely nescessary she change her physical nature or suffer greatly. I inlcuded the quote above because it is a common occurance in today's society. We all have ideals and morals we strive to live up to. However, the test of time eventually wears on us. The fan belt kept her from becoming overly influenced by emotion due to her appearance. This wore out and she was left to abandon her ideals. I was also intrigued by the line about how she "offered them up," referring to her old physical features. It could be thought of as merely ridding herself of their curse, but I think it is used to display her regret. She is asking forgiveness for giving in to the belief that her body will always be adequate.
Regardless of looks, we all have parts of our inner selves we need fixed. I don't think we can ever repair something completely like the poem suggests, but over time we make it better.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
"February"
"Over and over again, He shoots, he scores! and famine crouches in the bedsheets..." -"February" by Margaret Atwood
This poem definitely has the most interesting motivation, aim, and diction of all the chapter poems. I was slightly taken aback at some of the language used. Poetry is always though of as proper, eloquent, and flowing. It usually does not inlcude phrases like "burped-up meat" and "small pink bumhole." I must say though, the imagery it creates serves the metaphor well. I also had trouble grasping the theme of the poem. She starts out by emphasizing life as a pursuit of sex and territory, or status, wealth, etc. More than halfway down it shifts to our "pollution," a "scewered heart," and french fries. I believe the cat is much like the toad in "Toads" in that it is a representation of a fundamentally damaging characteristic of society: our pursuit of pleasure and status and wealth. The poem also utilizes some sarcasm at the end when it says that it's the "life principle, more or less, so get going on a little optimism." Atwood doesn't truly think these pursuits will bring happiness but society tells us they do. Furthermore, February is an effective metaphor for living modestly. When I think of February, it is a time of great anticipation and exhausting with the long state of winter. It takes much more concentrated optimism to see the good in February. However, February doesn't lend itself to indulgences like French fries. February is modest and challenging.
This poem definitely has the most interesting motivation, aim, and diction of all the chapter poems. I was slightly taken aback at some of the language used. Poetry is always though of as proper, eloquent, and flowing. It usually does not inlcude phrases like "burped-up meat" and "small pink bumhole." I must say though, the imagery it creates serves the metaphor well. I also had trouble grasping the theme of the poem. She starts out by emphasizing life as a pursuit of sex and territory, or status, wealth, etc. More than halfway down it shifts to our "pollution," a "scewered heart," and french fries. I believe the cat is much like the toad in "Toads" in that it is a representation of a fundamentally damaging characteristic of society: our pursuit of pleasure and status and wealth. The poem also utilizes some sarcasm at the end when it says that it's the "life principle, more or less, so get going on a little optimism." Atwood doesn't truly think these pursuits will bring happiness but society tells us they do. Furthermore, February is an effective metaphor for living modestly. When I think of February, it is a time of great anticipation and exhausting with the long state of winter. It takes much more concentrated optimism to see the good in February. However, February doesn't lend itself to indulgences like French fries. February is modest and challenging.
"Pink Dog"-Tone
"If they do this to anyone who begs...what would they do to sick , four-legged dogs?" -"Pink Dog" by Elizabeth Bishop
In regard to the guide question about the tone and its utilization, I chose "Pink Dog" due to it being the most heavily opinionated and personal out of all the poems this chapter. My personal opinion is that "Pink Dog" is similar with "London" in that it focuses primarily on the problem through the somewhat harsh explanation of a single character. In this case, Bishop focuses on the appearance of the "dog" and its treatment by society to point out the injustices in the system. The tone of the poem starts out as somwhat sympathetic and cautionary, then leads into the deeper problematic tendencies with society- the sarcastic, ridiculing tone. Bishop is describing the behaviors of an established society (Rio de Janeiro) which has not adapted morally to care for its impoverished. She, like Larkin, acknowledges that the poor must live by the wits to adapt in such a hostile society. In that sense, it seems as though the sympathy is carried out through the whole poem. She urges the "dog" to dress up for Carnival. Essentially, she wants him/her to follow the thought process of society and cover up their unpleasantries in order to have a chance at fitting in with the normal people.
In regard to the guide question about the tone and its utilization, I chose "Pink Dog" due to it being the most heavily opinionated and personal out of all the poems this chapter. My personal opinion is that "Pink Dog" is similar with "London" in that it focuses primarily on the problem through the somewhat harsh explanation of a single character. In this case, Bishop focuses on the appearance of the "dog" and its treatment by society to point out the injustices in the system. The tone of the poem starts out as somwhat sympathetic and cautionary, then leads into the deeper problematic tendencies with society- the sarcastic, ridiculing tone. Bishop is describing the behaviors of an established society (Rio de Janeiro) which has not adapted morally to care for its impoverished. She, like Larkin, acknowledges that the poor must live by the wits to adapt in such a hostile society. In that sense, it seems as though the sympathy is carried out through the whole poem. She urges the "dog" to dress up for Carnival. Essentially, she wants him/her to follow the thought process of society and cover up their unpleasantries in order to have a chance at fitting in with the normal people.
Paradox
"...who must Like th' other foot, obliquely run;" -"A Valediction: Forbidding Mourning" by John Donne
When I first read this statement it appeared illogical and contradictory, like a paradox should. Usually when one run the feet will be in paralll paths or else the individual will be wasting energy. Even to turn slightly requires more energy than to run in straight line. Although the statement suggests the follower is running in circles, the rest of the stanza clears up the contradiction. The speaker says that his/her firmness makes his "circle just." The follower is being guided along a circular path leading back to the start. The author tries to explain the difficulty in love in this stanza. He suggests that love is not easy- it requires effort, hence the circular path- but it can lead back to something great which the two once shared. Another contradiction I found which was slightly more easy to comprehend. In "Toads" Larkin uses an entire stanza of contradictions to illustrate a point. He mentions those who "live on their wits" such as "Losels, loblolly-men, louts" who somehow "don't end as paupers." When I think of of thieves and bums, I usually think of poverty or paupers and not someone who lives on their wits. He uses the contradiction to explain a point which he makes throughout the poem. He says that despite their immoral means of livelihood, they ultimately end up more fulfilled in life than someone who chases wealth.
When I first read this statement it appeared illogical and contradictory, like a paradox should. Usually when one run the feet will be in paralll paths or else the individual will be wasting energy. Even to turn slightly requires more energy than to run in straight line. Although the statement suggests the follower is running in circles, the rest of the stanza clears up the contradiction. The speaker says that his/her firmness makes his "circle just." The follower is being guided along a circular path leading back to the start. The author tries to explain the difficulty in love in this stanza. He suggests that love is not easy- it requires effort, hence the circular path- but it can lead back to something great which the two once shared. Another contradiction I found which was slightly more easy to comprehend. In "Toads" Larkin uses an entire stanza of contradictions to illustrate a point. He mentions those who "live on their wits" such as "Losels, loblolly-men, louts" who somehow "don't end as paupers." When I think of of thieves and bums, I usually think of poverty or paupers and not someone who lives on their wits. He uses the contradiction to explain a point which he makes throughout the poem. He says that despite their immoral means of livelihood, they ultimately end up more fulfilled in life than someone who chases wealth.
Personification
"A depilated dog would not look well. Dress up!" -"Pink Dog" by Elizabeth Bishop
At the beginning of chaper 5, personification, a specific type of figure of speech, is highlighted and discussed. It shows up in several of the poems to add depth and meaning to the theme. In poems like "Bright Star" and "Pink Dog" the metaphor is carried out throughout the entire poem and the effect of the speaker being or longing to be the object personified is built upon through descriptions of its characteristics. The book suggests that there are varying degrees of personification. Sometimes we are asked to compare an object in every aspect to a human and other times only part of the object is emphasized. For most of the poems, especially ones like "Bright Star," only part of the star is emphasized. When I think of personification, I often think it is used to give life and interest to something simple, like a flower or worm. However, "Bright Star" showed me that the opposite can also be true. Keats uses the immortal and eternal aspects of a star in an attempt to explain his own longing for superhuman qualities. We wants to be sleepless and omniscient while also being able to love and feel emotion. He wants intimacy and distance and illustrates it through personification.
At the beginning of chaper 5, personification, a specific type of figure of speech, is highlighted and discussed. It shows up in several of the poems to add depth and meaning to the theme. In poems like "Bright Star" and "Pink Dog" the metaphor is carried out throughout the entire poem and the effect of the speaker being or longing to be the object personified is built upon through descriptions of its characteristics. The book suggests that there are varying degrees of personification. Sometimes we are asked to compare an object in every aspect to a human and other times only part of the object is emphasized. For most of the poems, especially ones like "Bright Star," only part of the star is emphasized. When I think of personification, I often think it is used to give life and interest to something simple, like a flower or worm. However, "Bright Star" showed me that the opposite can also be true. Keats uses the immortal and eternal aspects of a star in an attempt to explain his own longing for superhuman qualities. We wants to be sleepless and omniscient while also being able to love and feel emotion. He wants intimacy and distance and illustrates it through personification.
"Toads"
"Can't I use my wit as a pitchfork and drive the brute off?" -"Toads" by Philip Larkin
When reading this poem, I first noticed the sarcasm with which Larkin speaks. I carried that sarcasm on longer than the author probably intended and thought that he was upset with the injustice he faced through poverty. I realized Larkin is disgusted but for a different reason. He is unhappy with the way he comes about his livelihood. He would be much more content with having good luck than to waste his time working toward financial security. He also would rather have nothing at all like "losels" in the alleys. This made me question two things. Why doesn't he acknowledge the fact that he can live simply? Also, what is the significance of the toad to represent material wealth. I believe the most plausibel explanation to the first question is that it seems like he has no family to comfort and strengthen him like the "losels" ("their nippers...unspeakable wives). The best explanation I can give for the metaphor of a toad would be that toads are ugly, reclusive, and not discussed frequently. The pursuit for wealth can also be described as ugly and somewhat taboo. We sometimes make choices for the sake of wealth that negatively affect our personalities, and we don't nescessarily talk openly about gaining wealth; we just do it naturally.
When reading this poem, I first noticed the sarcasm with which Larkin speaks. I carried that sarcasm on longer than the author probably intended and thought that he was upset with the injustice he faced through poverty. I realized Larkin is disgusted but for a different reason. He is unhappy with the way he comes about his livelihood. He would be much more content with having good luck than to waste his time working toward financial security. He also would rather have nothing at all like "losels" in the alleys. This made me question two things. Why doesn't he acknowledge the fact that he can live simply? Also, what is the significance of the toad to represent material wealth. I believe the most plausibel explanation to the first question is that it seems like he has no family to comfort and strengthen him like the "losels" ("their nippers...unspeakable wives). The best explanation I can give for the metaphor of a toad would be that toads are ugly, reclusive, and not discussed frequently. The pursuit for wealth can also be described as ugly and somewhat taboo. We sometimes make choices for the sake of wealth that negatively affect our personalities, and we don't nescessarily talk openly about gaining wealth; we just do it naturally.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
The Panther
"...the movement of his powerful soft strides." -"The Panther" by Rainer Maria Rilke
This poem intrigued me more than most of the poems in this set. I believe because the reasonable interpretations were limited, the author is looking for the reader to get more out of the imagery and our own imagination than the simple allegory itself. First, I took some context clues to conclude that the poem must be about a prisoner and not an actual animal. An animal would not think of life behind bars as a life with "no world" (essentially no hope.) He would merely think of it as the new normal. Also, only man can have a will described as "mighty." With animals instinct can be masked as will. Humans truly desire and pursue goals. What I took from the poem was that humans can often times be thought of as panthers. Although we live in families and communities, we spend every waking minute of each day with ourselves. We corrupt ourselves and this leads to a powerful will to either do good or evil. However, when this will is suppressed either by physical imprisonment or social situations, our feelings become stronger. Maybe we once again long for social interaction or imaginative freedom. When we desire these but realize we cannot have them, we experience a spiritual death from the lack of hope. It is almost a form of torment. We can visualize what we want but cannot have it.
This poem intrigued me more than most of the poems in this set. I believe because the reasonable interpretations were limited, the author is looking for the reader to get more out of the imagery and our own imagination than the simple allegory itself. First, I took some context clues to conclude that the poem must be about a prisoner and not an actual animal. An animal would not think of life behind bars as a life with "no world" (essentially no hope.) He would merely think of it as the new normal. Also, only man can have a will described as "mighty." With animals instinct can be masked as will. Humans truly desire and pursue goals. What I took from the poem was that humans can often times be thought of as panthers. Although we live in families and communities, we spend every waking minute of each day with ourselves. We corrupt ourselves and this leads to a powerful will to either do good or evil. However, when this will is suppressed either by physical imprisonment or social situations, our feelings become stronger. Maybe we once again long for social interaction or imaginative freedom. When we desire these but realize we cannot have them, we experience a spiritual death from the lack of hope. It is almost a form of torment. We can visualize what we want but cannot have it.
A "Titanic" Distance
"In a solitude of the sea deep from human vanity." -"Convergence of the Twain" by Thomas Hardy
Although this poem was fairly straightforward in regards to meaning and style, I found some notable nuances. First was the tone. Hardy takes a very sarcastic approach when speaking of the famed ship. He speaks of its "vaingloriousness" and refers to it as the "smart ship." The sarcasm is also supplemented by the other factors in the poem. He talks about how the "Iceberg grew too." The second method I noticed was Hardy's seemingly deliberate separation of the physical levels of the situation of which he is describing serve to continuate this sarcasm. However, the levels are not in order of importance. He talks about the indifferent sea creatures after he talks of the shiny and pretentious ship. The ship is normally on a level greater than that of the sea creatures but in this case is brought down to their same level. Then, on a pedestal higher than all entities is the "Spinner of the Years" who determines the fate of all levels, as evidenced by the decline of an esteemed level into indifference.
Although this poem was fairly straightforward in regards to meaning and style, I found some notable nuances. First was the tone. Hardy takes a very sarcastic approach when speaking of the famed ship. He speaks of its "vaingloriousness" and refers to it as the "smart ship." The sarcasm is also supplemented by the other factors in the poem. He talks about how the "Iceberg grew too." The second method I noticed was Hardy's seemingly deliberate separation of the physical levels of the situation of which he is describing serve to continuate this sarcasm. However, the levels are not in order of importance. He talks about the indifferent sea creatures after he talks of the shiny and pretentious ship. The ship is normally on a level greater than that of the sea creatures but in this case is brought down to their same level. Then, on a pedestal higher than all entities is the "Spinner of the Years" who determines the fate of all levels, as evidenced by the decline of an esteemed level into indifference.
"Creation" of Spring
"A strain of the earth's sweet being in the beginning in Eden garden." -"Spring" by Gerard Manley Hopkins
I chose this particular poem due to its upbeat tone and balanced imagery. For this reason I will attempt to answer some of the most relevant questions in the Blogging Requirements. If I had to write a theme for this poem, it would go: The beauty of God, creation, and the Creation Story itself can be found in the annual renewal that is Spring. There was some diction that could have added to the understanding of the story. I looked up "thrush" (a songbird) and "cloy" (to sicken with excess sweetness.) After finding thrush, I found the word very approporiate and fitting for the tone. The word itself has a much more positive connotation than "to disgust." Also, instead of explicitly stating that Paradise was ruined by sin, Hopkins puts it more lightly by suggesting that Adam and Eve were merely sick of constant happiness and chose responsibility. Another literary technique in use was juxtaposition. At the start of the poem, Hopkins talks about the beauty of spring, then goes into "weeds...shoot long and lovely and lush;..." Weeds are usually not associated with beauty and lovliness, and that is why the placement is effective. It calls attention to the very first lines and illustrates a theme Hopkins elaborates on. He is trying to make the point that all things created through God are meaningful and have a purpose.
I chose this particular poem due to its upbeat tone and balanced imagery. For this reason I will attempt to answer some of the most relevant questions in the Blogging Requirements. If I had to write a theme for this poem, it would go: The beauty of God, creation, and the Creation Story itself can be found in the annual renewal that is Spring. There was some diction that could have added to the understanding of the story. I looked up "thrush" (a songbird) and "cloy" (to sicken with excess sweetness.) After finding thrush, I found the word very approporiate and fitting for the tone. The word itself has a much more positive connotation than "to disgust." Also, instead of explicitly stating that Paradise was ruined by sin, Hopkins puts it more lightly by suggesting that Adam and Eve were merely sick of constant happiness and chose responsibility. Another literary technique in use was juxtaposition. At the start of the poem, Hopkins talks about the beauty of spring, then goes into "weeds...shoot long and lovely and lush;..." Weeds are usually not associated with beauty and lovliness, and that is why the placement is effective. It calls attention to the very first lines and illustrates a theme Hopkins elaborates on. He is trying to make the point that all things created through God are meaningful and have a purpose.
Imagery and its Effects
"How the Chimney-sweeper's cry. Every black'ning Church appalls;" -"London" by William Blake
When used in a poem, imagery does much more than add vibrancy and interest. In most of the poems in this unit, the imagery is an effective indicator of the tone, or the attitutude the writer or speaker takes toward the subject. I personally found it very helpful in the majority of the poems. In "Those Winter Sundays," Hayden's line of "love's austere and lonely offices" helped me piece together the probability that the speaker now notices his father's love even though he did not know as a child that it could take a cold, "austere" form. Other times it led to my confusion. "I felt a Funeral, in my Brain" prompted me to think Dickinson was moving through a process of successful mental inquiry because of the image of "I heard them lift a Box," but group discussion convinced me that she is in fact coming upon insanity. The quote at the beginning was one of the most useful in determining the tone. Not only does Blake regret the world he lives in, he, like the Chimney-sweep and Church, strongly detest what their society has forced upon them. The graphic visuals suggest a world in which no sane person would want to grow.
When used in a poem, imagery does much more than add vibrancy and interest. In most of the poems in this unit, the imagery is an effective indicator of the tone, or the attitutude the writer or speaker takes toward the subject. I personally found it very helpful in the majority of the poems. In "Those Winter Sundays," Hayden's line of "love's austere and lonely offices" helped me piece together the probability that the speaker now notices his father's love even though he did not know as a child that it could take a cold, "austere" form. Other times it led to my confusion. "I felt a Funeral, in my Brain" prompted me to think Dickinson was moving through a process of successful mental inquiry because of the image of "I heard them lift a Box," but group discussion convinced me that she is in fact coming upon insanity. The quote at the beginning was one of the most useful in determining the tone. Not only does Blake regret the world he lives in, he, like the Chimney-sweep and Church, strongly detest what their society has forced upon them. The graphic visuals suggest a world in which no sane person would want to grow.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
A Poem by Bill Carlos
"The plumtree is white today with masses of flowers." "The Widow's Lament in Springtime
I chose this poem because I feel it is the best test of Perrine's guidelines which I feel so obligated to employ. After reading, I knew that unlike a number of the poems in this unit, the "Widow's Lament" used many symbols, which Perrine described as meaning more than their literal interpretation, unlike metaphors. The challenging aspect was coming up with a non-contradictory or assumption-heavy explanation. Obviously color plays a major role in the exposition of this poem. White is life, new beginnings; yellow and red are fire and passion; dark symbolizes the unknown. My interpretation is that this is the first time the widow has endured a new beginning like spring without her husband. She had a passionate and personally fulfilling relationship with him. Now she, prompted by her son, is pondering a new, equally exploratory but promising life-this is the unknown, the "heavy woods." She wonders if she immerses herself in this curious new life, maybe she can find the right meaning for her altered fate. The reason I placed the plumtree quote above is that it is the most puzzling but important symbol in the poem. I believe it may symbolize their marriage. It has just come out of hibernation. Instead of dying off altogether, it has endured the winter and is producing flowers of a new season: a journey they are both still living even though he is gone.
I chose this poem because I feel it is the best test of Perrine's guidelines which I feel so obligated to employ. After reading, I knew that unlike a number of the poems in this unit, the "Widow's Lament" used many symbols, which Perrine described as meaning more than their literal interpretation, unlike metaphors. The challenging aspect was coming up with a non-contradictory or assumption-heavy explanation. Obviously color plays a major role in the exposition of this poem. White is life, new beginnings; yellow and red are fire and passion; dark symbolizes the unknown. My interpretation is that this is the first time the widow has endured a new beginning like spring without her husband. She had a passionate and personally fulfilling relationship with him. Now she, prompted by her son, is pondering a new, equally exploratory but promising life-this is the unknown, the "heavy woods." She wonders if she immerses herself in this curious new life, maybe she can find the right meaning for her altered fate. The reason I placed the plumtree quote above is that it is the most puzzling but important symbol in the poem. I believe it may symbolize their marriage. It has just come out of hibernation. Instead of dying off altogether, it has endured the winter and is producing flowers of a new season: a journey they are both still living even though he is gone.
Monday, September 5, 2011
Perrine
As I read through Perrine's guidelines for interpretation, I was at first brought back to my feelings toward Nabokov. I thought his explanation of poetic justice would be a highly specific and personally satisfying set of rules on which he has befallen after countless years of study. Perrine's guidelines were much more reasonable and attainable. Before reading this script, I had a fixed idea of poetry as an artistic expression. I would have argued for open interpretation because art is supposed to be a spiritual and personal expression. I now realize that poetry is as much a literary form as a sensual experience. It is also much more calculated and scientific. As Perrine suggests, a work may have many close interpretations but the author composes one with context and details that can ultimately mean only one thing. For me, this was an implicit challenge to interpret poems with acute logic.
For the sake of intellectual advancement, I accept this challenge. It is something that takes time; that is why Perrine can speak so fluently and convincingly of its attainability. The only part of his explanation that confused me was his dialogue over Blake's poem. After reading through the end of the script, I expected him to condemn Blake's poem as being too vague-for leaving too much to the imagination for the reader. On the contrary, he goes back to his stance of logic, no contradictions, and economy. He essentially says the fault lies with the reader who makes an interpretation that does not meet his guidelines. This to me seems like a flagrant contradiction. If I am to make a logical conclusion but given a text in which the symbols could stand for a plethora of different higher meanings, then how can any explanation be wrong. I believe Perrine should have made a distinction between poems in which the author focuses the diction to a specific purpose and those whose meanings are vague. Could it be perhaps that a poet is amused by the various takes on his work? I know if I were a poet, it would be amusing if people who admired my work made logical debates. It brings out human creativity.
For the sake of intellectual advancement, I accept this challenge. It is something that takes time; that is why Perrine can speak so fluently and convincingly of its attainability. The only part of his explanation that confused me was his dialogue over Blake's poem. After reading through the end of the script, I expected him to condemn Blake's poem as being too vague-for leaving too much to the imagination for the reader. On the contrary, he goes back to his stance of logic, no contradictions, and economy. He essentially says the fault lies with the reader who makes an interpretation that does not meet his guidelines. This to me seems like a flagrant contradiction. If I am to make a logical conclusion but given a text in which the symbols could stand for a plethora of different higher meanings, then how can any explanation be wrong. I believe Perrine should have made a distinction between poems in which the author focuses the diction to a specific purpose and those whose meanings are vague. Could it be perhaps that a poet is amused by the various takes on his work? I know if I were a poet, it would be amusing if people who admired my work made logical debates. It brings out human creativity.
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