Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Abortion" is a confessional poem by Anne Sexton, published in her 1966 collection "Live or Die." The poem explores the themes of female oppression, sexuality, and the societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles. It is a deeply personal account of Sexton's own experiences with abortion.

Explanation:

The poem is written in the first person point of view, with Sexton using her own voice to describe the events leading up to her abortion. The poem begins with Sexton standing outside the abortion clinic, smoking a cigarette and feeling the judgment of the people passing by. She then reflects on her own situation and how she has ended up there.

Throughout the poem, Sexton grapples with the conflicting emotions surrounding her decision to have an abortion. She feels guilty for what she is about to do, but also angry at the societal expectations placed upon her as a woman. She describes the procedure itself in graphic detail, highlighting the physical pain she experiences and the emotional turmoil it causes.

The poem ends with Sexton feeling a sense of relief, but also a lingering sense of shame and loss. She wonders about the child she has aborted and what kind of life it might have had, while also acknowledging the oppressive forces that led her to make the decision in the first place.

Poetic Elements:

Form: The poem is written in free verse with no set rhyme or meter, mirroring the chaotic and emotional nature of the subject matter.

Theme: The main themes of the poem are female oppression, sexuality, and the societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles.

Imagery: Sexton uses vivid, visceral imagery to describe the physical pain and emotional turmoil of the abortion procedure.

Tone: The tone of the poem is confessional, with Sexton using her own voice to describe her personal experiences and emotions.

Sound: The poem features several instances of repetition, including the repeated line "I have come to do it again."

Language: The language of the poem is raw and honest, with Sexton using blunt and explicit language to describe the abortion procedure.

Figurative language: The poem features several metaphors and similes, including the comparison of the abortion clinic to a "slaughterhouse."

Structure: The poem is divided into six stanzas of varying length, with each stanza containing a different reflection or thought.

Symbolism: The image of the "angel in the room" represents the societal pressure and judgment placed upon Sexton for her decision to have an abortion.

Emotion: The poem is filled with complex emotions, including guilt, shame, anger, and relief, highlighting the difficult and personal nature of the subject matter.

Conclusion:

"The Abortion" is a powerful and emotional poem that offers a deeply personal account of Anne Sexton's own experiences with abortion. Through her vivid imagery and raw language, Sexton highlights the societal pressures and expectations placed upon women, while also acknowledging the difficult and complex emotions that come with such a decision. The poem remains a poignant and relevant reflection on a deeply personal and often controversial subject.

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