Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Postcards from Soviet Cities: Leningrad" by John Updike explores the historical grandeur and the poignant contrasts of Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), delving into its creation, cultural richness, tragic past, and the mundane realities of modern life. Updike paints a picture of a city that is a complex tapestry of history, culture, and everyday existence, juxtaposing its imperial legacy with its stark Soviet realities and the vibrant life of its inhabitants.

The poem opens with a nod to the city's origins, founded by Tsar Peter the Great, who sought to "build a window on the west." The imagery of "oppressing" a swamp with "stones imported from the south" effectively conveys the monumental effort and harsh conditions under which the city was established. This foundation myth sets the stage for a city that is both a triumph of human will and a testament to the harshness of its environment.

The description of the city as "subtly polychrome" with colors like "old ochre, green, and dull maroon" evokes the architectural and aesthetic beauty of Leningrad, reminiscent of European cities, particularly Italian, as suggested by the ability to make "Italians feel at home." This connection underscores St. Petersburg's role as a cultural bridge between Russia and Europe, a theme central to its identity.

Updike then moves inside the Winter Palace, describing it as "pistachio," a color that hints at both opulence and decay. The "wilderness of treasure" and the "ghosts of plump czarinas" dragging "diamonds up the stair" invoke the imperial past and the lingering echoes of royalty that haunt the city's grand palaces. This splendor is contrasted starkly with the grim history of the Siege of Leningrad during World War II, where the city endured extreme hardships. Updike captures this suffering in the vivid depiction of "blackened snow and watered bread," a stark reminder of the city's resilience in the face of brutal siege.

The poem concludes with a sudden shift to the present, noting "Some couples Twist in our hotel." This line juxtaposes the city’s deep historical and cultural narratives with the banality and vivacity of contemporary life. The Twist, a dance popular in the 1960s, symbolizes a new era and cultural influx, contrasting sharply with the solemnity of the memorialized dead and the imperial ghosts.

Overall, "Postcards from Soviet Cities: Leningrad" is a richly woven poem that captures the essence of St. Petersburg through its layered history, from its ambitious imperial origins and cultural zenith to its tragic sieges and vibrant contemporary life. Updike’s use of vivid imagery and careful juxtapositions offers a nuanced reflection on the city's past and present, portraying Leningrad as a city of contrasts, where history and modernity coexist in a continuous dialogue.

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