Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov’s poem "Movement" explores themes of self-reliance, inner strength, and the desire to love without losing oneself. Through striking metaphors and introspective reflection, Levertov captures the balance between autonomy and connection, emphasizing the importance of maintaining one’s own center of gravity while engaging in relationships.

The poem begins with a clear intention: "Towards not being anyone else's center of gravity." This opening line sets the stage for the speaker’s exploration of independence and self-sufficiency. The phrase suggests a movement away from being overly reliant on or defined by another person, seeking instead to maintain personal equilibrium and integrity.

Levertov then expresses "a wanting / to love: not to lean over towards an other, and fall." This desire to love is framed within the context of maintaining balance. The idea of leaning towards another and falling implies a loss of stability and self-control, which the speaker wishes to avoid. Instead, the speaker aspires to a form of love that allows for both connection and personal strength.

The central metaphor of the poem is introduced: "but feel within one a flexible steel upright, parallel to the spine but longer, from which to stretch." This "flexible steel upright" represents an inner source of strength and resilience. By describing it as "parallel to the spine but longer," Levertov emphasizes that this strength is an extension of one’s core, providing additional support and the capacity to stretch and grow.

The metaphor continues with "one's own / grave springboard; the out-flying spirit's vertical trampoline." Here, the speaker envisions this inner strength as a springboard or trampoline, suggesting a dynamic and upward movement. The "grave springboard" implies a serious, foundational support that enables one to launch themselves outward. The "out-flying spirit's vertical trampoline" conveys a sense of joy, freedom, and aspiration, indicating that this inner strength allows the spirit to soar and explore new heights.

Levertov’s use of free verse allows for a natural and fluid expression of these ideas, mirroring the flexible strength described in the poem. The imagery of steel and springboards contrasts with the delicate balance required in relationships, highlighting the need for both firmness and flexibility.

"Movement" is a meditation on the balance between autonomy and connection in the context of love. Levertov’s vivid metaphors of steel and springboards capture the essence of maintaining one’s own center of gravity while still being open to love and connection. The poem emphasizes the importance of inner strength and resilience, suggesting that true love allows for both connection and personal growth, enabling the spirit to soar without losing its grounding. Through her introspective and evocative language, Levertov invites readers to reflect on their own relationships and the balance between independence and interdependence.

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