Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Tess Gallagher's poem "Rijl" intricately explores themes of identity, heritage, and the interplay between celestial and terrestrial existence. The poem weaves together mythological references, cultural practices, and personal memory to create a rich tapestry that reflects on the nature of being named after a star and the implications of such a name.

The poem opens with the assertion that to be named after a star is to possess both earth and heaven. This dual possession suggests a bridging of the mundane and the celestial, endowing the individual with a unique connection to both realms. The star in question, "Rijl al Musalsalah" (Foot of the Giant or Foot of the Woman), is rich with cultural and mythological significance. The name evokes images of grandeur and subjugation, as seen in the contrasting depictions of the star in Arabic and Chinese traditions.

Gallagher recounts the painful tradition of foot binding, a practice that epitomized the notion of beauty through suffering. The reference to the Chinese women with "lotus feet" juxtaposes the idealization of pain and beauty with the natural steps of ordinary people. The image of a woman near the Forbidden Palace in Beijing, accompanied by her granddaughter, brings this historical practice into a poignant, contemporary light. The memory of their "hobbled steps" serves as a stark reminder of the lengths to which societies have gone to achieve and maintain certain ideals.

The poem then shifts to the mythological, invoking figures such as Algebar, Orion, and Sahu. These celestial beings, inscribed in legends and tombs, represent various facets of strength, blindness, and survival. Orion, the hunter, and Sahu, the god-giant of Egypt, embody the idea of powerful figures whose narratives are marked by both triumph and vulnerability. Gallagher’s exploration of these myths underscores the complexity of human and divine experiences, highlighting the interplay of sight and blindness, strength and helplessness.

The poem's personal dimension emerges vividly when Gallagher addresses the child named after a star. This child, with a "double star" that is "white-hot and tinged with blue," becomes a symbol of potential and radiant energy. The child's playful command to be joined in dance, with arms raised, evokes a sense of joyous abandon and innate connection to the cosmos. The poet, identifying as the child's "giant," follows her lead, suggesting a deep bond of guidance and mutual admiration.

The poem culminates in a poignant memory of a real girl who, in a moment of defiance and self-awareness, declares, "Don't you know I'm a star? Don't you know I'm burning up?" This declaration captures the essence of the poem's exploration of identity and the struggle between societal expectations and personal truth. The girl’s assertion of her own brilliance and burning intensity serves as a powerful metaphor for individuality and resilience.

"Rijl" is a deeply layered poem that traverses mythological, cultural, and personal landscapes. Gallagher masterfully blends these elements to reflect on the nature of naming, identity, and the ways in which we navigate the intersections of our inherited legacies and personal experiences. The poem invites readers to consider the broader implications of their own names and identities, urging a recognition of the profound connections between our earthly lives and the celestial narratives that inspire us. Through its rich imagery and introspective narrative, "Rijl" celebrates the enduring power of myth and memory in shaping our understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

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