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A BLUE RIBBON AT AMESBURY, by             Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography

"A Blue Ribbon at Amesbury" is a reflective poem by Robert Frost that offers a rich tableau of rural life, engaging the reader with its vivid portrayal of a prize-winning chicken and its keeper. Through the description of the pullet—often a term for a young hen—and the interactions with her keeper, Frost delves into themes of value, excellence, and the mundane realities of rural existence.

The poem opens with a proud announcement that the fine pullet, immaculately groomed, has participated in a winter show, earning numerous accolades. The bird’s physical attributes such as "Her golden leg, her coral comb," and "Her fluff of plumage white as chalk" are described in detail, showcasing the characteristics that make her the "fancy’s talk." This initial presentation sets the tone for a story that, while centered around a chicken, is imbued with the significance and attention typically reserved for a champion of great renown.

Frost’s use of the chicken as a central figure could be seen as a metaphor for the pursuit of perfection and the recognition of excellence in the most unlikely of candidates. The bird, described as scoring "an almost perfect bird," embodies ideals of perfection which are celebrated not just in shows, but in the values of the community observing her. The reference to a Sewell, who might have painted her, alludes to the artistry and admiration that the pullet inspires, suggesting a reverence for ideal forms in both nature and art.

As the poem progresses, the focus shifts from the public admiration of the hen to her mundane existence back at home. Despite her accolades, she returns to her "abiding pen," engaging in normal activities like feeding and resting. This juxtaposition between her celebrated status and her ordinary life raises questions about the nature of fame and glory. It suggests a commentary on how exceptional qualities can exist in everyday contexts, often overlooked.

The keeper’s role is depicted with a sense of dedication and contemplation. His lingering by the dusty wall, meditating on the "breeder’s art," indicates a deeper consideration of his craft and the potential it holds. Frost hints at the keeper’s ambition to use the hen as a foundation for a new race, metaphorically exploring the theme of creation and innovation. This ambition is portrayed as a mix of practicality and visionary aspiration, reflective of human nature’s complexity.

The technical aspects of the poem—its structure, rhythm, and rhyme—enhance its thematic expressions. Frost employs a regular meter that mirrors the routine of farm life, while the rhyme scheme adds a lyrical quality that elevates the seemingly mundane subject matter to the level of art. The language is straightforward yet rich with imagery, enabling a vivid sensory experience.

In conclusion, "A Blue Ribbon at Amesbury" captures the essence of rural life and the paradoxical nature of value. Through the lens of a prize-winning pullet and her keeper, Frost explores themes of excellence, the banality of daily existence, and the human condition. The poem’s contemplative tone and vivid imagery invite readers to consider the broader implications of what it means to be truly noteworthy, both in the eyes of the world and in the simplicity of ordinary life.

POEM TEXT: https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/1936/04/a-blue-ribbon-at-amesbury/651950/


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