Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Wellfleet Whale" is a poem by American poet Stanley Kunitz. It was first published in his 1978 collection "The Poems of Stanley Kunitz, 1928-1978". Kunitz was a highly respected American poet who served as the Poet Laureate Consultant in Poetry to the Library of Congress twice, and won several awards for his work, including the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award.

Explanation:

"The Wellfleet Whale" is a powerful and haunting poem that explores the themes of mortality, memory, and the legacy of human impact on the natural world. The speaker reflects on the death of a whale that washes up on the shore of Wellfleet, Massachusetts, and the sense of wonder and awe that the massive creature inspires.

As the speaker contemplates the whale's death, he becomes increasingly aware of the ways in which human activity has impacted the natural world, and the ways in which we are all connected to one another and to the larger universe. The poem ends on a note of somber reflection, as the speaker acknowledges the loss and devastation that human activity has caused, but also finds hope in the idea that we can learn from our mistakes and work towards a better future.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: "The Wellfleet Whale" is a free verse poem, meaning it does not adhere to a strict rhyme or meter scheme.
• Imagery: The poem is full of vivid, sensory images, such as the "blue lips" of the dead whale and the "tide of grief" that washes over the speaker.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is elegiac and mournful, with moments of both despair and hope.
• Metaphor: The whale is a metaphor for the natural world and the interconnectedness of all living things.

Conclusion:

"The Wellfleet Whale" is a powerful and deeply moving poem that explores some of the most pressing environmental and ethical concerns of our time. Kunitz's use of vivid imagery and rich language creates a sense of awe and reverence for the natural world, while his exploration of the human impact on the environment adds a sense of urgency and gravity to the poem. Ultimately, the poem is a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of all living things, and the need to take responsibility for our actions and work towards a better future.

Poem Snippet:

"Blue lips

talking to no one

now that the whale is dead.

Silent the great mouth

that gulped the swarming fish,

the swimmer, the child,

the fleeing refugee

all brothers in death."

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