Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Carolyn Kizer’s poem “A Month in Summer” is a poignant exploration of a deteriorating relationship, structured as a day-by-day account of the protagonist's emotional journey. Each day brings a new layer of introspection, observation, and interaction, ultimately culminating in a profound sense of loss and resignation.

The poem begins with the protagonist reminiscing about a previous haiku they wrote, reflecting on the transient nature of love and life. The imagery of frost and impatient lovers sets a melancholic tone, hinting at the underlying tensions in the relationship. The haiku format, known for its brevity and evocative imagery, serves as an apt metaphor for the fleeting and delicate nature of human connections.

As the days progress, the poem delves into the intricacies of love and its performative aspects. The “drama of love” is likened to a theatrical performance, with scenes and intermissions played out by the couple. This comparison underscores the artificiality and effort required to maintain the facade of a harmonious relationship. The protagonist’s introspective musings reveal a growing sense of disillusionment and frustration, as they struggle to reconcile their inner turmoil with the expectations of love.

The poem's third day introduces a significant shift, as the protagonist becomes acutely aware of their partner's emotional depth, symbolized by the murky depths of the pond. This realization marks a turning point, where the protagonist begins to acknowledge the underlying complexities of their partner's character. However, this newfound awareness does little to alleviate the growing sense of alienation and disconnection.

By the fourth day, the protagonist's attempts to provoke a reaction from their partner reflect a desperate need to break free from the inertia of their relationship. The lights in every room symbolize a futile attempt to illuminate the darkness within, but the effort only serves to highlight the futility of their actions. This theme of frustration and helplessness continues to permeate the subsequent days, as the protagonist oscillates between moments of introspection and attempts to engage with their partner.

The poem takes a more reflective turn on the seventh day, as the protagonist’s daughter Laurel picks roses for visiting friends. This act of generosity and the resulting emptiness of the garden serve as a metaphor for the depletion of the protagonist’s emotional reserves. The imagery of aphids and the effort to control them parallels the protagonist’s own struggles to manage the creeping discontent in their life.

The decision to take a break from each other on the eighth day signifies a temporary reprieve from the constant tension. However, this period of separation only exacerbates the protagonist’s sense of isolation and longing. The subsequent days are marked by moments of introspection and trivial interactions, as the protagonist grapples with the reality of their situation.

By the twelfth day, the protagonist reflects on the passage of time and the generational gap between their father and daughter. This contemplation of mortality and the cyclical nature of life adds a somber layer to the narrative, emphasizing the inevitability of change and loss. The brief respite provided by a visit to friends is overshadowed by the protagonist’s persistent sense of disquiet.

As the poem progresses, the protagonist’s emotional state deteriorates further. The fifteenth day marks the end of the school year, allowing the protagonist to fully immerse themselves in their misery. The metaphor of summer sunlight providing an excuse for dark glasses encapsulates the duality of their existence, as they navigate the public and private spheres of their grief.

The dream of the protagonist’s deceased mother on the sixteenth day underscores the deep-seated nature of their pain. The recurring dream serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of loss and the comforting presence of memory. This theme of memory and its influence on the present continues to resonate throughout the poem.

The final days of the poem are characterized by a sense of resignation and acceptance. The protagonist’s interactions with their friend, G., offer a brief respite from their emotional turmoil. However, the realization that “nothing remains” signifies the ultimate dissolution of their relationship. The poignant imagery of the Telemann record lying on the table symbolizes the broken connections and unfulfilled promises that define their experience.

In the concluding lines, the protagonist grapples with the concept of unreality, questioning the very nature of their existence and experiences. This introspective inquiry leaves the reader with a profound sense of ambiguity and introspection, inviting contemplation of the ephemeral nature of human connections and the enduring impact of memory.

Overall, “A Month in Summer” is a deeply moving exploration of love, loss, and the passage of time. Kizer’s evocative imagery and poignant reflections create a rich tapestry of emotions, capturing the complexities of human relationships and the inevitability of change. The poem's structure, mirroring the passage of time, adds to its immersive quality, allowing readers to journey alongside the protagonist through their month of introspection and emotional turmoil.