Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

 "Marriage" is a poem by American modernist poet Marianne Moore, first published in her collection "Observations" in 1924.

Explanation: 

The poem explores the theme of marriage and the complexities of romantic relationships. The speaker describes various aspects of marriage, including its joys, challenges, and the sacrifices that come with commitment. The poem also questions traditional gender roles and expectations within marriage.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme or meter. The lines are of varying lengths and arranged in irregular stanzas.
• Theme: The main themes of the poem are love, commitment, and the challenges of relationships.
• Imagery: Moore uses vivid sensory imagery to describe various aspects of marriage, including the wedding ceremony, the couple's daily routines, and the tensions that can arise within a relationship.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is contemplative and reflective, with a hint of skepticism towards the traditional expectations of marriage.
• Language: The language is complex and layered, with an emphasis on concrete imagery and sensory details.
• Figurative Language: Moore uses various figurative language devices throughout the poem, including metaphors, similes, and personification, to convey the complexities of marriage.
• Structure: The poem is structured around the various aspects of marriage, including the wedding ceremony, the couple's daily routines, and the challenges they face. Each stanza builds upon the previous one, creating a cumulative effect.
• Symbolism: The wedding ring, a traditional symbol of marriage, appears throughout the poem as a symbol of commitment and the challenges of relationships.
• Emotion: The poem evokes a range of emotions, including joy, uncertainty, and melancholy, reflecting the complexities of marriage.

Conclusion:

"Marriage" is a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of love and commitment, questioning traditional gender roles and expectations within marriage