Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"June: Dutch Harbor" by William Meredith is a richly descriptive poem that explores the unique environment and fleeting beauty of June in Dutch Harbor, located in the Aleutian Islands. The poem contrasts the harsh, rugged landscape with the unexpected lushness and vibrancy of the brief summer season. Through vivid imagery and reflections on the natural and human elements of the place, Meredith meditates on the juxtaposition of war and nature, as well as the fleeting nature of beauty and life.

The poem opens with an acknowledgment of June's distinct character in Dutch Harbor: "In June, which is still June here, but once removed / From other Junes, chill beardless high-voiced cousin season." This suggests that June in Dutch Harbor is different from June elsewhere, characterized by a cooler and perhaps less mature feeling, akin to a "cousin" who has yet to grow a beard. The "emerald green" of the turf slides emerging between the stark contrasts of "white-and-black of the snow and ash" and the "wicked terminal sea" highlights the brief, vivid greenness that briefly brightens the harsh landscape.

The poem continues with a vivid portrayal of the landscape, noting the "weak blue of the rare sky" and the "milkwhite languid gestures of the fog." The fog's "languid gestures" suggest a slow, enveloping presence, contrasting with the "wicked terminal sea," a constant and potentially dangerous element. Amidst these stark elements, the green turf slides are likened to "patches of green neon," underscoring their striking appearance against the otherwise muted and severe environment.

Meredith observes the diversity and abundance of flowers that bloom in this harsh environment, describing the "rite of flowers" that is "observed" without regard to precedent, as this is a "new land." The mention of flowers like "violets the size of pansies," "huge anemone," and "sea-wishing lupine" highlights the surprising lushness and variety of flora. The list of flowers—wild geranium, flag, cranberry, buttercup—adds to the richness of this brief, intense blooming period, emphasizing the contrast between the harshness of the place and the delicacy of these plants.

The presence of wildlife is noted with "sandpipers stumble on the steel mats," "sparrows sing on the gun," and "faraway eagles are like eagles." These images blend the natural and military elements of the landscape, underscoring the coexistence of beauty and militarization. The map's description, "The Entire Aleutian Chain Is a Bird Sanctuary," juxtaposed with "Military Reservation," highlights the paradox of a place both protected and controlled.

The poem reflects on the impermanence and transience of this environment and the human activities within it: "Fly just above the always-griping sea / That bitches at the bitter rock the mountains throw to it." The sea's constant agitation against the rocks reflects a sense of restlessness and discontent. The reference to flying "with the permission-subject always to revoke" hints at the strict control and surveillance in this militarized area.

Meredith's tone shifts to a more reflective and philosophical note, contemplating the triviality and haste of the military mission compared to grand mythical quests: "Your mission is smaller than Siegfried's, lighter than Tristan's, / And there is about it a certain undignified haste." This line emphasizes the mundane and rushed nature of contemporary tasks compared to the epic adventures of mythic heroes. The mention of "a safe minimum" and the risk of "the bottom is likely to drop out" underscores the precariousness of both the environment and the human endeavors within it.

The poem concludes with a poignant observation of soldiers pressing flowers as a gesture of faith and remembrance amidst the wartime setting. The image of "the one who knew all about birds spun in that month" suggests a tragic loss, possibly referring to a soldier who was passionate about birds and who died during this period. The final line, "It is hard to keep your mind on war, with all that green," encapsulates the tension between the natural beauty of the place and the grim realities of war.

"June: Dutch Harbor" captures the unique and fleeting beauty of June in a remote and harsh environment, juxtaposing the vibrant life that briefly flourishes with the starkness of the landscape and the presence of military forces. Meredith's poem is a meditation on the contradictions of a place where beauty and war coexist, and where moments of peace and natural splendor stand in contrast to the underlying tensions and dangers.

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