Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Marilyn Hacker's "Runaways Cafe II" captures the intricate dance of emotions and unspoken tensions that accompany a moment of romantic anticipation. Through the lens of a seemingly ordinary dining experience, Hacker delves into the complexities of desire, self-control, and mutual understanding, offering a snapshot of a relationship in a moment of transition.

The poem opens with a candid admission: "For once, I hardly noticed what I ate." This line immediately signals that the speaker's attention is consumed not by the meal but by the person across the table. The specificity of the meal—"salmon and broccoli and Saint-Véran"—adds a layer of realism and contrasts sharply with the speaker's distracted state. The physical response to this tension is palpable: "My elbow twitched like jumping beans; sweat ran / into my shirtsleeves," vividly conveying the intensity of the speaker's nervous excitement.

Hacker's use of physical sensation to depict emotional turmoil is masterful. The sensation of the other person's leg against the speaker's under the table heightens the poem's sensuality and underlines the challenge of maintaining composure. The effort to "impersonate an adult" while battling these overwhelming feelings adds a touch of humor and relatability, as many readers can identify with the struggle to appear calm and collected in the face of strong emotions.

The poem transitions to a more introspective tone as the speaker contemplates the mutual desire for clarity and understanding: "Now that we both want to know what we want, / now that we both want to know what we know." This repetition emphasizes the mutual quest for honesty and direction in their relationship. Hacker's use of the word "behooves" suggests a sense of responsibility and seriousness, indicating that the speaker recognizes the importance of navigating this moment with care.

The speaker's internal monologue outlines the qualities they aspire to embody: "be circumspect, be generous, be brave, / be honest, be together, and behave." This litany of virtues reflects the speaker's desire to approach the situation thoughtfully and ethically, balancing the excitement of new possibilities with a commitment to integrity and mutual respect.

The poem concludes with a light-hearted note: "At least I didn't get white sauce down my front." This final line injects a touch of humor and humanity into the narrative, grounding the intense emotions in a relatable, everyday concern. It serves as a reminder that even in moments of heightened emotion, ordinary details and minor mishaps continue to shape our experiences.

"Runaways Cafe II" is a beautifully crafted exploration of the delicate interplay between desire and self-control. Hacker's vivid imagery, nuanced characterization, and skillful use of language create a resonant and relatable portrait of a moment poised on the edge of transformation. The poem's blend of sensuality, introspection, and humor offers a deeply human reflection on the complexities of love and the courage it takes to navigate the unknown.

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