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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

PUT BACK THE DARK, by             Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography


"Put Back the Dark" by Marvin Bell is an evocative poem that explores themes of resilience, freedom, and the existential journey through life's adversities. Through vivid imagery and profound contemplation, Bell invites readers into a reflective narrative that examines the human condition, our search for meaning, and the solace found in embracing the dark, both literal and metaphorical, as an integral part of existence.

The poem opens with an invocation to continue moving forward, despite the challenges of "cold, in drought," suggesting a resilience against the harsh conditions of life. The call to "blanket and seed our own bed" serves as a metaphor for self-sufficiency and the nurturing of one's inner world, preparing for the inevitable—"We'll be a long time dead." This line starkly reminds readers of mortality, urging a proactive stance towards life.

Walking "on stilts, on dagger heels," the poem captures the precariousness of human existence, navigating through "the howling of impatience and the ailing imprisoned." This imagery reflects the struggle against societal pressures, expectations, and the confinement of our own limitations or those imposed by external forces. The reference to walking through jails without anything to offer highlights a sense of powerlessness and the realization that true freedom comes from within, leading away from "ambition and vanity."

Bell's metaphor of the tree living "two-thirds in death" is particularly striking, suggesting that much of existence is spent in a state of dormancy or decline, yet it is this very aspect that fosters growth and renewal. It implies that acceptance of life's cyclical nature—embracing both its vitality and decay—is essential to understanding the full spectrum of the human experience.

The poem suggests a relinquishment of resistance in the face of the inevitable, stating, "There is nothing left to resist, where there is nothing irresistible." This philosophical resignation speaks to the acceptance of life's impermanence and the futility of struggling against the inexorable forces of change and loss. It reflects a mature perspective on life, recognizing that true strength lies in the acceptance of what cannot be changed.

As the cities "fade from vision," the transition from the tangible to the ephemeral mirrors the process of forgetting and the selective nature of memory. The fading cities can be seen as the diminishing importance of external achievements and material success in the grand scheme of one's life journey. The poem closes with a powerful image of intimacy and connection, "when your hand into mine put back the dark." This line evokes a sense of comfort, safety, and the profound human need for connection. It suggests that in moments of true intimacy, the darkness we fear can be held at bay, transformed into something shared and manageable.

"Put Back the Dark" is a contemplative piece that navigates the complexities of human resilience, the pursuit of freedom, and the acceptance of life's inherent challenges. Marvin Bell crafts a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant, encouraging readers to find beauty and meaning in the darkness, to cultivate inner strength, and to cherish the connections that illuminate our lives. Through its poignant imagery and thoughtful reflections, the poem stands as a testament to the enduring human spirit in the face of life's inexorable truths


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