Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Linda Gregg’s poem “The Edge of Something” juxtaposes a choice of identities, cultural references, and a meditative state to explore themes of memory, suffering, and finding peace in simplicity. Through evocative imagery and thoughtful reflection, the poem takes the reader on a journey from historical and personal torment towards a more serene acceptance.

The poem begins with a declaration of change: "I have decided I will not be like John Hu anymore." John Hu, a historical figure from the seventeenth century, is portrayed as alienated and eccentric, "dragging his mattress off the bed, sleeping by the open window in winter, standing in the garden looking at the full moon with his arms stretched out." This vivid depiction of isolation and strangeness sets the stage for the speaker’s choice to seek a different path.

In contrast, the speaker chooses to align with Po Chu-I, an ancient Chinese poet known for his simplicity and connection to nature: "Now I have chosen Po Chu-I with his three pine trees and idleness trying for union with the everlasting things." This choice reflects a desire for peace and tranquility, distancing oneself from the turmoil and remembering, “though I do not forget and still suffer.”

Po Chu-I’s influence is evident in the poem’s meditative tone and natural imagery: “When Po Chu-I was unhappy, he could still write, narcissus are blooming in my backyard. The tulips are not open yet, but the green is turning red.” The blooming flowers and changing colors symbolize renewal and the persistence of beauty despite suffering. The speaker adopts Po Chu-I’s approach to life, choosing to focus on simple pleasures and observations.

The poem transitions into a routine that embraces mindfulness and introspection: “I sleep late to allow my dreams luxury and go out when the sun is starting down. Afterwards, I practice my Chinese characters, taking pleasure in feeling my mind yield to what the symbols mean.” This daily practice of learning and appreciating Chinese characters symbolizes a deeper understanding and connection to the world, a calming ritual that contrasts with past turmoil.

Food also becomes a part of this meditative practice: “Later, I eat tofu and rice with cold asparagus in a sauce of sesame oil, soy and white vinegar with a little sugar.” The detailed description of the meal highlights the importance of mindful consumption and the appreciation of simple, nourishing food.

The poem then shifts to address past torments metaphorically described through seabirds: “No more seabirds screeching, 'Kiss the feet, kiss the fingers and the teeth. Kiss the skull washed up on the beach. Kiss it, kiss it, or you will be taken by dwarfs to the woods where your love perches calling your name in the dark.'” This imagery evokes a sense of haunting and relentless demands from the past, which the speaker now chooses to leave behind.

The poem’s conclusion reflects on a profound connection with nature: “When the deer on this summer mountain raise their ears and look my way, I stop—knowing they will run if I don't. A family of animals all of a kind. We are the same in the same world. Same color and stillness. Similar in our foreignness. Foreignness married by air. This is as close as we will come. This is the edge of not running.” Here, the speaker finds kinship with the deer, recognizing a shared existence in their mutual foreignness and stillness. This moment of connection and recognition signifies the speaker’s acceptance of the present and the serenity found in simply being.

“The Edge of Something” captures a journey from a troubled past towards a peaceful present, marked by mindfulness, nature, and simple pleasures. Through the juxtaposition of historical and cultural references, the poem illustrates the speaker’s transformation and embrace of a more serene and contemplative way of life.

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