Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

John Hollander's "Appearance and Reality" is a witty and incisive exploration of the contrast between how things appear and their underlying truths. Through two distinct vignettes, the poem examines the dissonance between public persona and private reality, and between belief in the supernatural and the skeptical view of it.

The first vignette focuses on Josephine Bonaparte, depicted with a "serious mien" in a portrait by the artist Prud'hon. The playful phrase "Higgledy-piggledy" sets a whimsical tone, contrasting with the dignified image of Josephine. This light-hearted introduction suggests that the serious expression captured in the painting might not reflect the true nature of its subject. The stanza ends with a jarring revelation: "Prudence (her teeth were a / Carious green.)" This stark detail about Josephine's dental condition punctures the solemnity of her portrayed image, revealing a hidden imperfection masked by "cosmetological prudence." The use of "carious green" not only conveys the unpleasant reality of decay but also serves as a metaphor for the superficial efforts to maintain an outward appearance of grace and beauty.

In the second vignette, the poem shifts to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, famously known for his belief in spiritualism. The humorous "Spookety Flookety" sets the stage for a playful yet critical examination of Doyle's engagement with the supernatural. "Spoke to some spirits / And wrote what they said" captures Doyle's practice of documenting supposed communications with the dead. This engagement with the paranormal is presented with a hint of skepticism, especially in the line "Some cynics I have known / Think he should write his own / Autobiography / Now that he’s dead." This clever twist not only questions the credibility of Doyle's spiritualist endeavors but also suggests a satirical scenario where Doyle, now deceased, could authenticate his own beliefs by continuing to communicate from beyond the grave.

Hollander's poem thus navigates the tension between appearance and reality through its humorous yet thought-provoking commentary. In the case of Josephine Bonaparte, the focus is on the discrepancy between her polished, public image and the private reality of her physical imperfections. For Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the poem highlights the contrast between his earnest pursuit of supernatural communication and the skepticism that surrounds it.

The structure and rhythm of the poem contribute to its playful tone, with "Higgledy-piggledy" and "Spookety Flookety" adding a sing-song quality that belies the seriousness of the themes explored. The use of precise, vivid details, such as "carious green" and the suggestion of an autobiographical writing from beyond the grave, enriches the poem with layers of meaning.

In "Appearance and Reality," Hollander masterfully uses humor and irony to probe the often deceptive nature of appearances and the complexities of human belief. By juxtaposing the dignified facade with the hidden truths and the earnest pursuit of spiritualism with its inherent doubts, the poem invites readers to reflect on the ways in which reality is constructed and perceived.

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