Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Ishtar" is a poem by John Frederick Nims, an American poet and literary critic who lived from 1913 to 1999. Nims was known for his concise and powerful poems, as well as his contributions to American literature.

Context:

The poem reflects on the mythology of Ishtar, a goddess from ancient Mesopotamia who was associated with fertility, love, and war. The poem explores the complexity and richness of Ishtar's character, as well as the enduring appeal of her story and her influence on Western culture.

Content:

The poem is a meditation on the mythology of Ishtar, exploring the various aspects of her character and her influence on Western culture. The poem describes Ishtar as a powerful and multifaceted goddess, embodying both love and war, and reflecting the complexity and richness of human experience. The poem also reflects on the enduring appeal of Ishtar's story, and the ways in which it continues to inspire and influence contemporary culture.

Form:

The poem is written in free verse, with no regular rhyme or meter. The poem's form contributes to its sense of naturalness and organic flow, reflecting the complexity and richness of Ishtar's character and her influence on Western culture.

Poetic Elements:

The poem makes use of a range of poetic techniques and devices, including metaphor, imagery, and repetition. For example, the poem uses the metaphor of a "mystery" to describe the allure and fascination of Ishtar's story, creating a sense of depth and complexity. The repetition of the phrase "Ishtar, goddess" emphasizes her power and influence, and creates a sense of awe and reverence.

Summary:

Overall, "Ishtar" is a powerful and evocative poem that reflects on the mythology of a powerful and multifaceted goddess from ancient Mesopotamia. Nims' use of poetic techniques and devices creates a sense of richness and depth, reflecting the complexity and enduring appeal of Ishtar's story. The poem remains a valuable contribution to the canon of American literature and provides insight into the ways in which ancient mythology continues to inspire and influence contemporary culture.

Poem Excerpt:

"Ishtar, goddess of many names,

goddess of love and war,

mistress of the mysteries, your power

endures. In the myths,

you dance, you fight, you love,

you conquer, you create."

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