Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Syntax" by Carol Ann Duffy is a deeply reflective and beautifully crafted poem that explores the intimate and sometimes complex relationship between language and love. Duffy delves into the intricacies of expressing affection, drawing on the archaic forms of English pronouns to convey a sense of timeless and profound connection. The poem is a meditation on how traditional language can encapsulate deep emotions that contemporary expressions might fail to capture fully.

The poem begins with a longing to use the word "thou" instead of "you." Duffy chooses "thou" not only for its poetic quality but also for its historical depth and intimacy. "Thou" was once a familiar form of "you," used among close relations and friends, conveying a personal touch lost in modern English. Duffy describes "thou" as "the sound of the shape of the start of a kiss," beautifully illustrating how language and physical expressions of love are intertwined. This opening sets the tone for a poem that is both a love letter to an individual and a love letter to language itself.

The desire to use "thou" extends to other expressions—"Ilove, thou, Ilove, thoullove"—which play with word order and syntax to reflect the speaker's deep feelings. This manipulation of language mirrors the often tumultuous and overwhelming nature of love, where emotions can disrupt conventional patterns of speech. Duffy's playful syntax not only captures the intensity of her feelings but also highlights her skill as a poet in bending language to suit emotional expression.

Duffy expresses a wish to say "thee, I adore, I adore thee," further exploring the old English form. The repetition of "I adore thee" emphasizes the depth of her adoration, while the phrase "to know in my lips the syntax of love resides" suggests that speaking these words is an essential, physical manifestation of love. The poem argues that language is not merely a tool for communication but also a vessel for carrying the weight and texture of human emotions.

The line "and to gaze in thine eyes" connects the verbal expression of love with the visual and soulful connection, implying that love is experienced through multiple senses. Here, language and sight intermingle, enhancing the emotional intensity between the speaker and the beloved.

Duffy concludes with the observation that "Love's language starts, stops, starts; the right words flowing or clotting in the heart." This line captures the essence of the poem—the struggle to find the right words to express love adequately. The words can either flow smoothly or clot, obstructing expression, much like how love itself can be fluid or fraught with challenges.

Overall, "Syntax" by Carol Ann Duffy is an exquisite exploration of how the evolution of language impacts emotional expression. It is a poignant reminder of the power of words in shaping and expressing our deepest desires and connections. Duffy’s use of archaic language forms serves as a bridge to a past where words may have carried different emotional weights, inviting us to reflect on the evolution of our own expressions of love.

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