Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Crack" is a poem by Denise Levertov that explores the theme of division and the potential for reconciliation. It was first published in her 1971 collection "Footprints."

Poetic Elements:

Imagery: The poem uses vivid and sensory imagery to create a sense of division and conflict. For example, in the first stanza, Levertov describes the "shattered mirror" that represents the brokenness and fragmentation of the world.

Metaphor: The poem employs several metaphors to explore the theme of division and the potential for reconciliation. In the third stanza, for example, Levertov compares the "broken world" to a "tree split by lightning," suggesting the possibility of healing and renewal.

Symbolism: The poem uses several symbols, such as the "shattered mirror" and the "tree split by lightning," to explore the theme of division and the potential for reconciliation.

Form: The poem is a free verse, consisting of six stanzas of varying lengths, and employs several poetic elements to convey its theme.

Explanation:

"The Crack" is a poem that explores the theme of division and the potential for reconciliation. The poem begins by describing the "shattered mirror" that represents the brokenness and fragmentation of the world. The poem then goes on to suggest that division is a fundamental aspect of human existence, and that it is only through acceptance of this division that true reconciliation can occur.

In the third stanza, the poem uses the metaphor of the "tree split by lightning" to explore the potential for healing and renewal in the face of division. The poem suggests that while the division may be painful and destructive, it can also be a source of growth and transformation.

The fourth stanza of the poem acknowledges the difficulty of reconciliation, suggesting that it requires a willingness to face the painful truths of the past and to accept responsibility for one's actions. The poem suggests that true reconciliation requires a commitment to forgiveness and understanding, and that it is ultimately a process of healing and transformation.

The final stanza of the poem suggests that the potential for reconciliation is always present, even in the midst of conflict and division. The poem ends with the image of the "crack in everything," suggesting that even in the midst of brokenness and fragmentation, there is always the possibility of healing and renewal.

In summary, "The Crack" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the theme of division and the potential for reconciliation. The poem suggests that while division is a fundamental aspect of human existence, it is only through acceptance of this division that true reconciliation can occur. Through the use of poetic elements such as imagery, metaphor, and symbolism, the poem creates a vivid and compelling portrait of the potential for healing and transformation in the face of conflict and division.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...