Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Hazards of Holiness: 2. Judith and Holofernes" is a poem by William Everson that was first published in his collection "The Veritable Years: Poems 1949-1966" in 1968. The poem is a retelling of the biblical story of Judith and Holofernes, exploring the theme of the transformative power of faith and the importance of holding true to one's convictions.

Explanation:

The poem describes the events leading up to Judith's murder of the Assyrian general Holofernes, including her infiltration of his camp and her eventual decapitation of him. The speaker reflects on the nature of faith and the ways in which it can bring both danger and redemption. The poem also explores the theme of the importance of holding true to one's beliefs, even in the face of overwhelming opposition.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme scheme or meter. The poem consists of three stanzas of varying lengths.
• Imagery: The poem contains vivid visual imagery that evokes the world of the biblical story, as well as emotional imagery that describes the speaker's feelings of awe and reverence towards Judith.
• Allusion: The poem makes reference to the biblical story of Judith and Holofernes and the Christian faith.
• Theme: The poem explores the theme of the transformative power of faith and the importance of holding true to one's convictions, as well as the dangers that come with living a life of faith.

Conclusion:

"Hazards of Holiness: 2. Judith and Holofernes" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the complexities of faith and the transformative power of holding true to one's convictions. The poem's use of vivid imagery, allusion, and introspection creates a sense of intimacy and connection between the reader and the biblical story, while its underlying theme of the importance of faith in the face of adversity underscores the value of holding true to one's beliefs even in the most difficult circumstances.

Poem Snippet:

"So let the victory be sung, the harps resound

as Judith goes forth, serenely proud,

her hair aflame, a blade of tempered steel

held in her hand, her body limned with zeal."

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