Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov's poem "Human Being" intricately explores the duality and complexity of the human experience, delving into themes of doubt, suffering, beauty, and gratitude. Through vivid imagery and reflective language, Levertov presents the human journey as a continuous balancing act, marked by moments of profound contemplation and an ever-present struggle with existential questions.

The poem opens with the description of a "human being-walking / in doubt from childhood on." This initial image sets the tone for the poem, suggesting that doubt is an inherent part of the human condition, beginning early in life and persisting throughout. The metaphor of "walking / a ledge of slippery stone in the world's woods deep-layered with wet leaves" conjures a sense of precariousness and vulnerability. The path, flanked by "ecstasy" on one side and "dull grief" on the other, highlights the constant tension between joy and sorrow that defines human existence.

As the poem progresses, Levertov shifts the setting to the "mind's imperial cities," with "roofed-over alleys, / thoroughfares, wide boulevards." These urban images symbolize the vast and intricate landscape of the human mind, a place of exploration and reflection. The "evening primrose of sky in steady calipers" suggests moments of clarity and beauty amidst the complexity of thought. However, despite the mind's expansive nature, it encounters a persistent barrier: "the wall." This wall, described as "brick that crumbles and is replaced, of twisted iron, of rock," represents the insurmountable obstacles and limitations faced by humans, both external and internal.

The wall's monotonous proclamation—"Children and animals / who cannot learn / anything from suffering, suffer, are tortured, die in incomprehension"—introduces a stark and harrowing reality. It underscores the inherent cruelty and senselessness of suffering, especially for the innocent and vulnerable who cannot make sense of their pain. This acknowledgment of suffering creates a poignant contrast with the moments of beauty and delight previously mentioned.

Despite these harsh truths, the poem reveals a ritual of gratitude performed by the human being each night: "summoning-with a breath blown at a flame, or hand's touch / on the lamp-switch- darkness, / silently utters, / impelled as if by a need to cup the palms and drink from a river, / the words, 'Thanks. / Thanks for this day, a day of my life.'" This act of giving thanks, described as a "childish formula," embodies a simple yet profound response to the day's experiences, blending doubt with praise. The ritual signifies a recognition of the day's value, despite its challenges and uncertainties.

Levertov continues to explore this theme of duality as the human being "pulls up the blankets, looking into nowhere, always in doubt." The juxtaposition of doubt and a sense of gratitude encapsulates the essence of the human condition—a perpetual search for meaning and understanding, coupled with an acceptance of life's inherent uncertainties. The act of "drifting to sleep, downstream / on murmuring currents of doubt and praise" metaphorically represents the transition into rest, where the day's reflections blend into the subconscious, preparing for the cycle to begin anew.

The poem concludes with the wall, now "shadowy," casting "its own familiar, chill, clear-cut shadow into the day's brilliance" the next morning. This imagery reinforces the notion that the challenges and doubts of the human experience are ever-present, casting their influence over each new day. However, the repeated acknowledgment of gratitude and the contemplation of life's dualities provide a framework for navigating these shadows.

"Human Being" by Denise Levertov masterfully captures the intricate and often contradictory nature of human existence. Through her use of rich imagery and reflective language, Levertov delves into the themes of doubt, suffering, beauty, and gratitude, presenting a nuanced and deeply empathetic portrayal of the human journey. The poem invites readers to embrace the complexity of their experiences, finding moments of grace and gratitude amidst the uncertainties and challenges of life.

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