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OPERA QUEENS, by             Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography

Edward Field's poem "Opera Queens" offers a humorous and satirical glimpse into the world of opera enthusiasts, focusing on their obsessions with divas and their penchant for gossip. Through witty dialogue, vivid characterization, and playful imagery, Field explores themes of idolatry, rivalry, and the competitive spirit that permeates the opera community.

The poem begins with the speaker recalling an anecdote shared by a composer neighbor, who reveals that the great Anna Moffo has sung his songs and calls him every New Year's: "A composer I know, a neighbor, / once dropped the electrifying news / that the great Anna Moffo has sung his songs, / and telephones him every New Year's."

Intrigued by this connection to his "ultimate goddess," the speaker frequently asks the composer if Miss Moffo has called yet. However, the composer consistently dismisses Anna Moffo with a "flick of the hand" and instead shifts the conversation to another legendary diva, Zinka Milanov. The composer accompanied Milanov on the piano during her retirement years, when she coached other divas with vocal problems.

The composer recounts a story involving Moffo and Milanov: "When Anna came to her / for coaching, / Madame Milanov asked, / 'How old are you, my dear.' / 'Fifty-four,' Anna answered." Milanov insists on truthfulness and probes Moffo further: "'we must be truthful / with each other, / or I cannot help you. / Sixty-four?'" The composer laughs triumphantly, suggesting that Milanov often repeated this story to mock Moffo's age and vanity.

The composer continues to undermine Anna Moffo by mocking her ambitions to perform the demanding role of Norma: "the last time Anna called him / she said she was working on Norma. / 'Norma!' / He howls with laughter / at the thought. / My tattered queen...." The use of "tattered queen" reflects both admiration and criticism, encapsulating the dual nature of the composer's feelings towards Moffo.

The poem shifts to another story involving Renata Scotto, a celebrated diva of the Metropolitan Opera, who seeks Milanov's guidance for the role of La Gioconda. Milanov, unimpressed, responds dismissively: "'My dear,' said Madame Milanov, / 'Cats are cats / and dogs are dogs, / and you / will / never / sing / Gioconda!'"

The poem ends with the composer mimicking Milanov's mannerisms as he recounts these stories, "gasping / with Milanovian mirth" and waving his hand dismissively.

Field's poem offers a humorous critique of the intense rivalries and petty gossip that characterize the world of opera enthusiasts. The dialogue is rich with irony and cattiness, reflecting the competitive spirit among divas and their followers. The composer's dismissive attitude towards Anna Moffo and Renata Scotto reveals his unwavering loyalty to Zinka Milanov, whom he holds in the highest regard.

Themes and Characters:

1. Idolatry and Rivalry: The poem illustrates the idolatry surrounding opera divas and the rivalries that arise among their followers. The composer treats Milanov with "utter worship," while mocking Moffo and Scotto for their ambitions.

2. Aging and Vanity: The anecdotes about Moffo's age and Scotto's aspirations highlight the vanity and challenges of aging in the competitive world of opera. Milanov's probing question about Moffo's age and her dismissal of Scotto's ambitions reflect the harsh realities faced by aging performers.

3. Gossip and Satire: The poem's tone is satirical, poking fun at the gossipy nature of opera enthusiasts and their tendency to idolize and criticize divas in equal measure. The composer's imitation of Milanov's mannerisms adds to the humor and caricature.

Conclusion:

"Opera Queens" by Edward Field is a witty and satirical exploration of the world of opera enthusiasts. Through vivid characterization, sharp dialogue, and playful imagery, Field captures the rivalries, vanities, and idiosyncrasies that define this subculture. The poem invites readers to laugh at the absurdity of these obsessions while also recognizing the genuine passion and devotion that underlie them.


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