Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Albert Goldbarth’s poem "Spies (Spies? Spies.)" delves into the multifaceted nature of observation, surveillance, and the human desire to uncover hidden truths. Through its intricate narrative, the poem explores how spying permeates various aspects of life—from intimate personal experiences to grand historical events—illustrating the complex interplay between curiosity, control, and love.

The poem begins with an assertion that spies are ubiquitous: "are everywhere. / They float, trenchcoated, slant-capped, from deep cover and code name into the always unsatisfactory half-revelation of newspaper headlines." This sets the tone for the poem, suggesting that spying is not only a clandestine activity but also an intrinsic part of human behavior. The imagery of spies floating and the mention of newspaper headlines highlights the tension between what is revealed and what remains hidden.

Goldbarth transitions from the global to the personal, reflecting on how spying manifests in everyday life. He recounts childhood memories of observing nature and the innocent curiosity that accompanies it: "I'm / 7, peering under the ever-braiding skin of Humboldt Creek." This exploration is portrayed as natural and harmless, contrasting with more intrusive forms of spying. The distinction becomes blurred when the poet reflects on a more voyeuristic scenario, pondering the morality of such actions.

The poem then delves into the realm of familial relationships, particularly the speaker’s father, who would watch over him out of a mix of love, concern, and nosiness: "my father would wait, however long it lasted, 3 in the morning, 4, until my date... and out of love? concern? sheer nosiness?" This surveillance, born from parental care, is both protective and invasive, illustrating the complicated motivations behind spying.

Goldbarth extends this theme to broader historical and cultural contexts, referencing Georgia O'Keeffe and the FBI surveillance she endured in 1953. The poet contrasts O'Keeffe's artistic scrutiny—her intense focus on capturing the essence of her subjects—with the FBI's intrusive monitoring. The juxtaposition of O'Keeffe's "espionage of what ticks at the quick of us" and the FBI's surveillance underscores the tension between creative exploration and authoritarian control.

The poem’s second section examines how observation can lead to a deeper understanding of the world and oneself. O'Keeffe’s meticulous attention to detail in her paintings is likened to the ancient poet Chiant Te-li's approach to art: "Painting plum blossoms is done like judging horses / —By bone-structure, not by appearance." This analogy highlights the importance of looking beyond the surface to grasp the true nature of things.

The poem also explores the invasive nature of state surveillance, noting how figures like Dorothy Parker, Theodore Dreiser, and Archibald MacLeish were monitored. The poet reflects on the pervasive nature of spying, likening it to a mechanical transmission device disguised as a living thing. This metaphor extends to the poet’s personal experiences, illustrating how surveillance infiltrates even the most intimate aspects of life.

In the concluding lines, the poet reflects on the enduring presence of his father's gaze, even after his death: "I'm cradling his head in my arms the week before he dies... It's his own lonely version of love, I think." This poignant moment captures the complex emotions tied to observation, suggesting that even in its most intrusive form, it can stem from a place of deep affection and care.

"Spies (Spies? Spies.)" by Albert Goldbarth intricately weaves together themes of surveillance, curiosity, and love, examining how the act of spying permeates both personal and historical contexts. Through vivid imagery and reflective narrative, the poem explores the multifaceted nature of observation, highlighting its potential to both connect and alienate. Goldbarth’s work invites readers to contemplate the motivations behind spying and the delicate balance between knowing and controlling, love and intrusion.

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