Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"In Species, Darling" by John Ciardi is a deeply reflective and nuanced poem that explores themes of connection, divergence, and the intrinsic nature of love within the broader context of the natural world. Through the metaphor of the whale's evolutionary journey from shallow waters to the deep sea, Ciardi delves into the complexities of human relationships and the instinctual drives that lead us towards what we perceive as happiness.

The poem begins with a contemplation of the whale, "a cousin of a sort," which once swam in "summer shallows" similar to how the speaker and his beloved did, only to eventually venture into the depths of the ocean. This transition from shallow to deep waters serves as a metaphor for the evolution of desires and the pursuit of fulfillment, highlighting the differences between the whale's path and the human inclination to retreat from the "salt that first braced and then stung." The contrast between the whale's deep-sea calling and the couple's return to shore encapsulates the poem's exploration of divergence in the pursuit of happiness.

Ciardi uses the phrase "each to the thing nearest its happiness as each finds it" to underscore the idea that each being, whether human or animal, gravitates towards what it inherently perceives as joy or fulfillment. This pursuit is deeply personal and varies from one individual to another, reflecting the diverse tapestry of life and the multitude of paths that creatures can take in their quest for contentment.

The acknowledgment of the speaker's gratitude for his partner "against the belittling sea" introduces a theme of companionship and support in the face of life's vastness and challenges. This expression of love and appreciation is contrasted with the notion of "idiom" as the "skin of meaning," suggesting that conventional expressions of love only scratch the surface of the profound and instinctual connection that exists between them.

Ciardi's use of the term "tropisms" to describe the couple's natural inclination towards each other, and sometimes towards the "beam-breaking sea," illuminates the inherent drives that dictate our attractions and aversions. This biological metaphor emphasizes the primal and elemental forces that underlie human emotions and relationships, positioning love as an instinctual turning towards what brings us equilibrium and fulfillment.

"In Species, Darling" is a contemplation of the elemental forces that shape our connections and the paths we choose in pursuit of happiness. Through the metaphor of the whale's evolution and the natural inclinations of species, Ciardi invites readers to reflect on the depth and complexity of love and the instinctual nature of our desires. The poem celebrates the profound bond between the speaker and his beloved, a connection that transcends superficial expressions of affection and touches on the very essence of what it means to find balance and happiness in another's presence.

POEM TEXT: https://www.google.com/books/edition/Echoes/FoFhzEWqitYC?hl=en&gbpv=1&bsq=in%20species

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