Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | ||||||||
"Autobiography" is a poem by American poet Lawrence Ferlinghetti, published in his collection "A Coney Island of the Mind" in 1958. The poem is known for its simple language and autobiographical themes, exploring Ferlinghetti's personal experiences and views on life. Explanation: The poem is composed of a single stanza of 22 lines, with the speaker reflecting on his life and the choices he has made. The poem begins with the famous line "I am leading a quiet life," and goes on to describe various moments from the speaker's life, including his travels to Europe and his time spent in jail. The poem also touches on themes of love, war, and social justice. Poetic Elements:
Conclusion: "Autobiography" is a reflective and personal poem that offers insights into Lawrence Ferlinghetti's life and views on the world. The simple language and autobiographical themes make the poem accessible to a wide range of readers, while the vivid imagery and subtle wordplay add depth and complexity to the work. The poem's themes of detachment, love, and social justice make it a timeless and resonant piece of poetry. Poem Snippet: "I am leading a quiet life in Mike's Place every day watching the champs of the Dante Billiard Parlor and the French pinball addicts. I am leading a quiet life on lower East Broadway. I am an American." Copyright (c) 2024 PoetryExplorer | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...INTERRUPTED MEDITATION by ROBERT HASS PRIVILEGE OF BEING by ROBERT HASS SEAWATER STIFFENS CLOTH by JANE HIRSHFIELD SAYING YES TO LIVING by DAVID IGNATOW THE WORLD IS SO DIFFICULT TO GIVE UP by DAVID IGNATOW |
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