Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Alicia Suskin Ostriker's poem "The Plateau" offers a poignant meditation on the complexities of long-term relationships, exploring themes of companionship, struggle, and the eventual return of passion through the lens of mutual support in times of vulnerability. The poem reflects on the journey of a relationship, marked by challenges and growth, and culminates in a contemplation of the inevitable shift that comes with aging and mortality.

The poem begins by acknowledging the arduous journey that has brought the speaker and her companion to their current state: "The climb was long / and often dangerous, / there were recriminations, / stumblings." These lines suggest a history of difficulties and conflicts, a shared path that was not easy but was navigated together. The word "recriminations" indicates past arguments or blame, highlighting the imperfections and tensions that are part of any deep relationship.

Despite these challenges, the speaker expresses a deep loyalty and commitment: "never did I desire another / for my companion on this path." This line underscores the strength of the bond between the speaker and their partner, emphasizing that, despite the struggles, there was never a desire to journey with anyone else. The use of the word "companion" evokes a sense of partnership and mutual support, suggesting that the relationship has been a source of solace and strength throughout the journey.

As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on the current state of their relationship, which has reached a "plateau." The plateau symbolizes a place of stability and mutual understanding, a leveling out after the steep and dangerous climb. The speaker notes "the delicacy with which we attend / to one another’s liberty," highlighting the respect and care that define their interaction. This careful attention to each other's freedom suggests a mature relationship, where both individuals have learned to balance their closeness with respect for each other's individuality.

The poem continues with a peaceful image: "our demons sleep in their caves / like angry children who have sobbed themselves / into exhaustion." This metaphor suggests that the internal conflicts and emotional struggles that once plagued the relationship have been subdued, not eliminated but rendered dormant. The comparison of demons to "angry children" evokes a sense of compassion and understanding; these once-turbulent emotions have been soothed, allowing the "grownups" to smile and enjoy the peace that has been achieved.

In this state of tranquility, the speaker and their partner express mutual admiration: "you praise my writing my cooking my kindness / I admire your jokes your politics your photographs." This exchange of compliments reflects the deep appreciation and love that have grown between them. The listing of specific qualities and talents highlights the many facets of their relationship, suggesting that they have come to value and celebrate each other’s unique contributions to their shared life.

However, the poem takes a somber turn with the speaker’s prediction: "someday one of us / will begin to die / to lean on the other / with horrible need." This shift introduces the theme of mortality, acknowledging the inevitable decline that will come with age. The anticipation of "horrible need" implies the physical and emotional dependency that can accompany illness and aging, when one partner may have to rely heavily on the other for support.

Yet, even in this prediction of future hardship, the poem finds a resurgence of passion: "and passion, passion / will flow again." The repetition of "passion" emphasizes its importance and inevitability. The speaker suggests that in the face of vulnerability and the challenges of mortality, the deep, powerful emotions that characterized their relationship in earlier times will reawaken. This renewed passion is not born from youthful desire but from the intense bond forged through a lifetime of shared experiences and mutual care.

"The Plateau" is a tender and introspective reflection on the journey of a relationship, from the struggles and conflicts of the past to the calm and mutual respect of the present, and finally to the challenges of the future. Through its exploration of companionship, liberty, and the inevitability of change, the poem offers a nuanced portrayal of love that endures and evolves, finding new depths even in the face of life's most difficult moments. Ostriker’s poem ultimately speaks to the enduring power of love, suggesting that true passion is rekindled not just in moments of joy, but also in times of profound need and connection.

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