Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

John Ashbery's "Abstentions" is a rich tapestry of imagery and emotion, blending elements of travel, memory, and introspection. The poem, like much of Ashbery's work, is marked by its abstract nature and its open-ended interpretation, inviting readers to explore the layers of meaning within its lines.

The opening line, "Not the shy tourist, hopping up the salty steps of Rome-The Piazza Venezia from a bus, the transparent emotions go by," immediately sets a scene of travel and observation. The image of the tourist in Rome suggests an exploration not only of a physical landscape but also of an emotional and psychological one. The reference to "transparent emotions" implies a sense of fleeting, ephemeral feelings, perhaps those experienced by the observer or those witnessed in others.

Ashbery's use of disjointed images such as "The old mines," "iron monuments drift by," and "The arches nailed to wood," creates a collage-like effect. This technique is characteristic of his style, where seemingly unrelated elements are juxtaposed to evoke a broader, more complex emotional landscape. These images could represent fragments of memories, historical references, or symbolic representations of human experiences.

The line "Please tell me that you love me" introduces a direct, human element amidst the abstract imagery. This plea for affirmation can be seen as a universal human desire for connection and understanding. Following this, the poem shifts back to more abstract imagery with references to "green seaweed on the black and blue water" and "friends' precision with excitement." These images continue the theme of exploring the depths of human experience, both in the natural world and in interpersonal relationships.

The mention of "The man who sees a cloud in Schenectady / Affects someone he does not know on the other side of the globe," introduces the idea of interconnectedness and the unforeseen impact of seemingly insignificant actions or observations. This global perspective ties individual experiences to a larger, more universal context.

Ashbery's reference to "the percussive honeymoon" and the contrasting images of a bride in white and a man dressed in white carrying a white newspaper and apple present a dichotomy between celebration and mundanity. The mention of "gold tears shed for him" and "white bricks" further adds to the sense of contrast and emotional complexity.

The concluding lines, "The clouds sneer but go sailing into the white sky," offer a final, vivid image that combines natural beauty with a hint of cynicism or detachment. This closing encapsulates the poem's exploration of the interplay between the sublime and the ordinary, the personal and the universal.

In "Abstentions," Ashbery crafts a poem that is both visually striking and emotionally resonant. Through a blend of vivid imagery and abstract thought, he invites the reader to ponder the complexities of human experience, the fleeting nature of emotions, and the intricate connections between individual and collective existence. The poem stands as a testament to Ashbery's ability to evoke profound insights through his unique poetic language and vision.

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