Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"History of Western Music: Chapter 26" is a poem written by August Kleinzahler. The poem was first published in The Paris Review in 2008.

Explanation:

The poem is divided into four sections, each describing a different event or image related to the history of Western music. In the first section, the speaker describes a performance by Glenn Gould, playing Bach's Goldberg Variations. The second section describes the music of Arnold Schoenberg and his Twelve-Tone technique. The third section features an image of a jazz musician playing the trumpet. The final section of the poem depicts a young boy playing the piano.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is composed of four sections, each comprising of two stanzas of varying line lengths.
• Imagery: The poem contains vivid imagery, particularly in the descriptions of the music and musicians.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is contemplative and reflective, conveying a sense of wonder and awe towards the power of music.
• Allusion: The poem alludes to various historical figures and musical techniques, such as Glenn Gould, Arnold Schoenberg, and the Twelve-Tone technique.

Conclusion:

"History of Western Music: Chapter 26" is a poem that reflects on the power of music to evoke strong emotions and images. The poem's vivid imagery and contemplative tone work together to convey a sense of wonder towards the history of Western music and the musicians who have contributed to it.

Poem Snippet:

"Outside, / on the sidewalk, I turn up / the collar of my coat against the wind"