Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Valley of the Fallen" by Carolyn Kizer explores the multifaceted themes of memory, history, and political convictions. The poem is set against the backdrop of the infamous monument in Spain, which serves as a repository of historical and emotional weight for the poet. Kizer weaves personal anecdotes with reflections on Spain's troubled past, creating a rich tapestry of narrative and meditation.

The poem opens with a detailed description of the Valley of the Fallen, emphasizing its grandiosity and the oppressive atmosphere that envelops it. This setting establishes the tone of the poem, highlighting the tension between the monument's physical grandeur and the moral and political complexities it represents. The reference to Franco and his intimate knowledge of the monument's cost underscores the dictatorial legacy embedded in its creation.

In the first section, Kizer introduces her friend Maisie, whose struggles and bitterness reflect the broader disillusionment and betrayal experienced by those who lived through or were affected by the Spanish Civil War. Maisie's story of an abusive husband who fought in the Abraham Lincoln Brigade adds a layer of personal history to the poem, illustrating how political ideals can complicate personal relationships. Kizer's empathetic response, "I would have done it too," aligns her with Maisie's past choices, acknowledging the powerful pull of shared political convictions.

The second section delves into Kizer's own political and familial background, revealing her deep-rooted opposition to Franco's regime and her commitment to social justice. The reference to her parents' activism and her early exposure to the Spanish Civil War through songs and stories establishes a personal connection to the historical events. This connection is further emphasized by her emotional response to the songs of the International Brigade, which serve as a poignant reminder of the enduring impact of the war.

The third section captures Kizer and her husband's visit to the Valley of the Fallen, where they confront the monument's physical and symbolic presence. The couple's initial hesitation transforms into a decision to engage with the site as part of their broader understanding of history and architecture. The description of the monument as "virtually empty" and "not as grotesque" as expected underscores the eerie tranquility of the place, contrasting sharply with the brutality of its origins.

Kizer's reaction to Franco's grave is a mixture of defiance and restraint. Her impulse to spit on the grave is tempered by her husband's caution and the presence of the honor guard. Instead, she opts for a verbal curse, a symbolic act of resistance against the dictator's legacy. This moment encapsulates the poem's central tension between personal memory and public history, highlighting the struggle to reconcile individual emotions with the collective past.

The poem concludes with a reflection on the enduring impact of revolutionary ideals and the ongoing struggle for justice. Kizer's reading of poems to students in a classroom marked by revolutionary slogans serves as a reminder that the fight against oppression continues, even in the face of repeated losses. The final lines, referencing the practical details of visiting the monument, bring the reader back to the present, underscoring the accessibility of history and the importance of engaging with it critically.

"The Valley of the Fallen" is a powerful meditation on the intersections of personal and political history. Through vivid imagery, personal anecdotes, and reflective commentary, Kizer captures the complex legacy of the Spanish Civil War and its lasting impact on those who lived through it and those who remember it. The poem serves as both a tribute to the resilience of the human spirit and a reminder of the enduring need for vigilance and resistance against tyranny.