Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Kaddish" is a poem written by David Ignatow and first published in 1967 in his collection "Rescue the Dead". The poem is a tribute to the poet's mother and his Jewish heritage.

Explanation:

The poem is written in the form of a Kaddish, a Jewish prayer traditionally recited in mourning for the dead. The poet reflects on the life of his mother, who was an immigrant to the United States from Russia. He describes her hardships and sacrifices, as well as her resilience and strength in the face of adversity. The poet also reflects on his own relationship with his mother, and his struggles to come to terms with her death.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with no consistent rhyme or meter. The structure of the poem mirrors the form of the Kaddish prayer, with repeated refrains and a focus on the themes of mourning and remembrance.
• Imagery: The poem is rich in sensory imagery, with vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells of the poet's childhood home and his mother's life.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is contemplative and mournful, with a sense of reverence and respect for the poet's mother and his Jewish heritage.

Conclusion:

"Kaddish" is a powerful tribute to the poet's mother and his Jewish heritage. Through vivid imagery and an introspective tone, Ignatow explores the complexities of grief and the enduring bonds of family and tradition.

Poem Snippet:

"Mother of my birth, for how long were we together

each other's pride and each other's disappointment,

I cannot say, nor for how long before that we were one.

Who else recalls your moments of pain and happiness?"