Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Note to John Ashbery" by Frank O'Hara is a poem that showcases O'Hara's characteristic blend of vivid imagery and playful, often whimsical language. It serves as both an ode to and a commentary on the work of John Ashbery, a fellow poet and contemporary. This poem is an excellent example of how O'Hara's work often bridges the personal and the poetic, blending conversational tone with complex, imaginative imagery.

The poem opens with a comparison of Ashbery's words to a vivid, almost surreal natural scene involving "wild ducks paddling among drowned alley cats." This striking image sets the tone for the poem, highlighting O'Hara's appreciation for Ashbery's ability to create beautiful, unexpected imagery in his poetry. The mention of "green-ringed words" suggests a richness and depth in Ashbery's language that captivates and encircles the reader.

O'Hara uses animal imagery throughout the poem, with references to "elephant smells," "grunts of giraffes," and a "tub of frogs." These images create a sense of the exotic and the playful, qualities often found in Ashbery's poetry. The animals symbolize the diverse and sometimes wild nature of Ashbery's poetic imagination.

The reference to being pushed "into the mangoes from under your Papageno cape" alludes to the character Papageno from Mozart's opera "The Magic Flute." Papageno, a birdcatcher, is known for his colorful and whimsical personality. This comparison suggests that Ashbery, like Papageno, has a magical, transformative effect on his audience, leading them into a world of rich and exotic experiences.

O'Hara expresses a desire to "keep your words forever in our heart like a tub of frogs." This metaphor highlights the lively, dynamic quality of Ashbery's poetry. The idea of keeping words like a "tub of frogs" suggests an appreciation for the unpredictable and lively nature of language.

The poem concludes with a playful and somewhat enigmatic scene of craning "over the wave," gawking "pleasantly," and making a "scaly leg." This image encapsulates the sense of wonder and engagement that O'Hara finds in Ashbery's poetry. It speaks to the transformative power of poetic language to alter perceptions and create new ways of seeing the world.

"Note to John Ashbery" is a celebration of the poetic imagination and a tribute to a fellow poet. It showcases O'Hara's unique style, which combines vivid imagery, emotional directness, and a conversational tone. The poem captures the spirit of admiration and camaraderie that existed between these two significant figures in the world of modern poetry.

POEM TEXT: https://www.google.com/books/edition/The_Collected_Poems_of_Frank_O_Hara/J1evY4wjjy0C?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=%22More+beautiful+even+than+wild+ducks%22+o%27hara&pg=PA581&printsec=frontcover