Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

The poem "Flowering Vetch" by Jane Hirshfield suggests that the human experience, both tragic and comedic, is unified by the complexities of the self. The piece delves into the notion of individual characters in tragedies and comedies as facets of a "single ripening self," each representing a different aspect of human existence. This concept mirrors the idea found in literature and psychology that all individuals encompass multitudes, with various dimensions forming a single, complex self.

The poem identifies "flaws" as focal points in human narratives-specifically, the flaws of self-knowledge or greed. Hirshfield then contrasts this with the animal world, positing that we "cannot imagine a tragedy of donkeys or bees." This contrast serves as a vehicle to explore what sets humans apart: our existential concerns, our focus on virtues and flaws, and the complexities of our inner lives. In animals, such complexities are replaced by "ordinary realities," like "hunger, coldness, anger, longing, heat," which in themselves are devoid of what we would consider tragic or comedic dimensions.

The style of the poem itself is evocative and reflective, in keeping with Hirshfield's typical contemplative tone. It doesn't use flashy language or intricate structures but opts for a more straightforward, almost clinical approach. This simplicity allows the profound nature of the subject matter to shine through, giving room for the reader to ponder the themes presented.

Towards the end, the poem introduces a transformative moment-represented by the vetch flower-that leads to a newfound perspective. It suggests a kind of epiphany, a small yet crucial realization that changes one's outlook on life. After this point, the person doesn't mind playing a "minor and almost wordless role," as if accepting the triviality of human existence when weighed against the vast scale of life itself. The speaker finds solace in understanding that even actions perceived as errors-stopping by the fig tree and eating, in this case-might actually be the very purpose of one's journey.

This acceptance brings to mind philosophical concepts like existentialism, where life's absurdity or meaningless is acknowledged, yet one continues to search for individual purpose. The revelation at the poem's end is almost Sartrean; it implies that our actions define us, even if they seem inconsequential or are led by our flaws.

"Flowering Vetch" navigates through themes of self, flaw, and ordinary realities with deep insight. Hirshfield masterfully combines the complexities of human behavior and emotion with the simplicity of nature and animal existence to create a compelling narrative that questions and celebrates the multifaceted nature of life.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...