Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Composition" by Barbara Guest, the poet crafts a concise yet evocative meditation on the nature of poetry and its origins. This poem explores themes of creation, simplicity, and the intrinsic magic that underlies the poetic process.

The poem opens with a declarative statement: "Lo, from the outside a poem is with us, of another composition." The use of "Lo" immediately grabs the reader's attention, suggesting a revelation or an important announcement. This line sets the tone for the poem, indicating that the composition being discussed is something extraordinary, arriving from an external, perhaps mystical, source.

Guest's reference to the poem's origin as "an antique place" imbues the piece with a sense of timelessness and historical depth. This antique quality suggests that poetry carries with it the weight of history and tradition, connecting the present with the past. The "writing, narrow and sparse, pungent as the lemon tree" evokes a vivid sensory experience. The comparison to a lemon tree not only suggests the sharp, fresh impact of the words but also hints at the natural, organic quality of poetry. It is something that grows and thrives, rooted in the soil of language and culture.

The line "Difficult, spelling and montage" acknowledges the inherent challenges in the poetic process. Poetry often involves intricate wordplay and the careful assembly of disparate elements into a cohesive whole. This difficulty is part of what makes poetry so rewarding and profound; it is a craft that requires both skill and inspiration.

Guest contrasts the grandiosity often associated with artistic endeavors with the simplicity of the poet's life. "We have built no large hall to labor in. We sleep on small cushions for as long as we wish." This image evokes a sense of humility and contentment. The lack of a "large hall" suggests that true poetic work does not require grandiose settings or elaborate facilities. Instead, it flourishes in modest, intimate spaces where the poet can find peace and inspiration.

The poem concludes with a powerful statement: "Our lives are composed with magic and euphony." Here, Guest encapsulates the essence of the poetic life. The use of "magic" suggests that there is an element of the inexplicable and the wondrous in the creation of poetry. It is not just a mechanical process but one infused with a sense of mystery and enchantment. "Euphony," which refers to the pleasing and harmonious combination of sounds, emphasizes the musicality and beauty inherent in poetry. Together, these elements create a life that is rich in both artistry and meaning.

In just a few lines, Barbara Guest's "Composition" captures the profound and multifaceted nature of poetry. The poem serves as a reminder that poetry, while challenging and complex, is also a deeply magical and harmonious endeavor. It connects us to the past, brings beauty into our lives, and transforms even the simplest of settings into spaces of profound creative potential. Through her masterful use of imagery and succinct language, Guest invites readers to appreciate the subtle yet powerful impact of poetry on our lives and the world around us.

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