Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Mark Jarman's poem "If I Were Paul" is a profound meditation on the nature of human existence, morality, and the complexities of our interactions with one another. The poem is structured as a contemplative address, invoking the apostle Paul’s style of writing letters to early Christian communities, to delve into themes of creation, justice, and the moral imperative to repair the harm we inflict on each other.

The poem opens with an invocation to "Consider how you were made," immediately calling the reader to reflect on the intricacies of their creation. Jarman uses rich, evocative imagery to describe this process: "the loving geometry that sketched your bones, the passionate symmetry that sewed / flesh to your skeleton." This description not only emphasizes the complexity and beauty of the human form but also suggests an underlying intentionality and care in our making.

The notion of the soul descending "in shimmering rivulets / across pure granite to pour as a single braided stream into the skull’s cup" is particularly striking, blending the physical and the spiritual in a seamless, almost mystical manner. This imagery invites the reader to appreciate the unity and coherence of body and spirit.

Jarman then shifts to a broader reflection on human virtues and principles: "Consider the first time you conceived of justice, engendered mercy, brought parity into being." Here, he highlights the foundational concepts that underpin a just and compassionate society. The metaphor of coaxing "liberty like a marten from its den" suggests that these virtues are both inherent and elusive, requiring effort and intention to bring into the light.

The poem moves into the realm of interpersonal relationships with a call to "Consider, as if it were penicillin or the speed of light, the discovery of another’s hands." This section underscores the importance of recognizing and appreciating the humanity in others, describing various physical and emotional attributes in vivid detail. The line "Consider the first knowledge of otherness. How it felt." challenges the reader to recall the profound impact of truly recognizing the existence and significance of another person.

Jarman juxtaposes these reflections with a stern admonition against dehumanization and cruelty: "Now imagine what I have to say when I learn of your enterprising viciousness." The use of the word "enterprising" implies a calculated and systemic approach to inflicting harm, highlighting the deliberate nature of such actions. The subsequent lines—"the discipline / with which one of you turns another into a robot or a parasite or a maniac or a body strapped to a / chair"—list the various ways in which people can be dehumanized and stripped of their dignity.

The poet then issues a powerful moral imperative: "Do the impossible. Restore life to those you have killed, wholeness to those you have maimed, / goodness to what you have poisoned, trust to those you have betrayed." This call to action emphasizes the need for profound and perhaps seemingly impossible acts of restitution and healing. The repetition of "restore" underscores the gravity and scope of the damage that needs to be undone.

In the closing lines, Jarman offers a blessing, urging readers to "Bless each other with the heart and soul, the hand and eye, the head and foot, the lips, tongue, / and teeth, the inner ear and the outer ear." This comprehensive blessing encompasses every part of the human body and spirit, reinforcing the interconnectedness and wholeness of our existence. The blessing extends to "the whole body, clothed and naked, young and old, aging and growing up," acknowledging the diversity and totality of human life.

The poem ends with a note of uncertainty and hope: "I send you this not knowing if you will receive it, or if having received it, you will read it, or if / having read it, you will know that it contains my blessing." This conclusion reflects the inherent uncertainty in communication and the hope that the message will be received and understood.

In "If I Were Paul," Mark Jarman masterfully blends reflective contemplation with a powerful moral message, invoking the apostle Paul’s rhetorical style to challenge readers to consider their creation, their interactions with others, and their moral responsibilities. The poem’s rich imagery and profound reflections invite readers to engage deeply with its themes and to strive for a more compassionate and just world.

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