Carolyn Kizer's poem "Exodus" offers a reflective and almost whimsical take on the inevitability of life's journey towards its end. Through its unadorned language and straightforward imagery, the poem portrays a diverse group of individuals collectively moving towards an unknown destination, capturing the universality of human experience. The repetition of the line "We are coming down the pike" serves as a refrain that unites the varied characters mentioned, suggesting a shared destiny. The phrase itself, colloquial and familiar, evokes a sense of journey and movement, a common path that everyone must travel. The use of "pike," a term for a major road, underscores the idea of a journey that is both personal and collective. The poem's structure is simple and direct, mirroring the straightforwardness of the message. There is no complex rhyme scheme or meter, which allows the focus to remain on the imagery and the characters introduced. By listing these individuals—Wanda and Val, her fourth husband, Sallie Swift, and the bridge players at Mason’s Grill—Kizer provides snapshots of different lives, each with its own story and context. The inclusion of details like "her fourth husband" adds depth and suggests histories and experiences that shape each character. Despite the differences in their lives, these characters are "not grouped by age" and move "in no particular order," highlighting the randomness and egalitarian nature of the journey. Life’s end does not discriminate based on age or circumstance; it comes for everyone, and in this sense, all are equal. The mention of "the fellows who play bridge / Every Thursday, at Mason’s Grill, in the back, / Two of them named George" adds a touch of familiarity and humor. It humanizes the abstract concept of an exodus, grounding it in everyday activities and relationships. The specific details about their routine and the commonality of their names make these characters relatable, reminding readers that this journey is one that ordinary people embark on, regardless of their backgrounds or the minutiae of their daily lives. The poem’s brevity and clarity reinforce its contemplative tone. It does not dwell on the specifics of where the journey leads or what lies at the end, focusing instead on the act of moving forward together. This lack of explicit direction or destination reflects the uncertainty and mystery of life's final journey, leaving room for individual interpretation and reflection. In "Exodus," Carolyn Kizer captures the essence of a shared human experience with simplicity and grace. The poem's imagery and structure convey a sense of unity and inevitability, while its relatable characters and gentle humor make the abstract concept of mortality feel immediate and personal. Through this collective journey, Kizer reminds us of our common humanity and the shared path we all must travel, regardless of the differences in our lives. |