Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Peter Viereck's poem "Affirmation: 2. In Defense of Gladness" was first published in his poetry collection "Tide and Continuities" in 1945. The poem reflects Viereck's belief in the importance of joy and happiness in the face of the struggles of the world.

Explanation:

The poem is divided into three stanzas of unequal length. In the first stanza, the speaker observes the "tawny butterfly" and the "green grass blades" that "wave to and fro" in the wind. The speaker finds joy in these simple pleasures and encourages the reader to do the same.

In the second stanza, the speaker acknowledges the hardships and suffering of the world, such as war and poverty. Despite these struggles, the speaker insists that joy and gladness are necessary for survival. The speaker argues that happiness is not a luxury, but a "right."

In the final stanza, the speaker asserts that joy is not only necessary for survival, but also for creativity and progress. The speaker calls for a "new renaissance," in which artists and thinkers can draw inspiration from the world's beauty and the "laughter of children."

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with no regular meter or rhyme scheme.
• Imagery: The poem is rich in sensory imagery, with vivid descriptions of the natural world.
• Repetition: The phrase "In Defense of Gladness" is repeated twice in the poem, emphasizing its importance.

Conclusion:

"Affirmation: 2. In Defense of Gladness" is a powerful expression of Peter Viereck's belief in the importance of joy and happiness. Through vivid imagery and a confident tone, the speaker argues that even in the face of the world's struggles, gladness is necessary for survival and progress.

Poem Snippet:

"Rejoice then, as much as you can,

In our age of obfuscation,

And every oblique aberration

Of the anti-heroic man."

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...