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FLEA'S CARRYING WORDS, by             Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography

William Stanley Merwin's poem "Flea's Carrying Words" is a fascinating exploration of the nature of existence, responsibility, and identity, as told through the perspective of a seemingly insignificant creature—a flea. Through the flea’s monologue, Merwin delves into themes of burden, purpose, and the acceptance of one’s role in the world, no matter how small or undesirable it may seem.

The poem begins with the stark image of "a flea carrying a bag of diseases," immediately establishing the flea as a bearer of something harmful and unwelcome. However, the flea quickly distances itself from the responsibility of creating these diseases, stating, "these I did not make myself / we don't all have the same gifts." This distinction highlights the idea that the flea is merely a carrier, not a creator, of the afflictions it bears. The phrase "we don't all have the same gifts" introduces the concept of inherent roles and abilities, suggesting that everyone has a specific function in life, whether or not it is chosen.

The flea continues by expressing its lack of knowledge and control over its cargo: "I don't even know who made them / I don't know who I'll use them / I don't use them myself." This admission underscores the flea's detachment from the consequences of its actions, portraying it as a passive participant in a larger, unknowable process. The flea's role is not one of intent but of necessity—"I just do what's in front of me / as I'm supposed to." This resignation to duty, regardless of its nature, reflects a broader commentary on the inevitability of certain roles and responsibilities in life.

The flea's awareness of its unpopularity is conveyed with a touch of irony: "nobody likes me / nobody wants to change places with me." Despite the flea's acknowledgment of its undesirable position, there is a sense of acceptance, even contentment, in its situation. The flea doesn't mind being disliked or avoided; instead, it finds solace in its ability to "get away / bag and all." This escape, whether physical or existential, highlights the flea’s resilience and independence.

The flea’s declaration that "something needs me / everything needs me / I need myself" speaks to the idea of interdependence and the inherent value of even the smallest, most overlooked creatures. The flea recognizes its place in the grand scheme of things, understanding that it has a purpose, however obscure or unappreciated it may be. The repetition of "needs" emphasizes the importance of each role in the web of life, suggesting that all beings, no matter how insignificant, have a reason for existing.

The poem concludes with the enigmatic line, "and the fire is my father." This statement introduces a powerful symbol of creation, destruction, and transformation. Fire, as the flea's "father," suggests that the flea's existence is born out of a primal, elemental force—one that both gives life and consumes it. The fire may represent the destructive nature of the diseases the flea carries, or it could symbolize the flea’s internal drive, its burning purpose that propels it forward despite its burdens.

"Flea's Carrying Words" is a deeply philosophical meditation on the nature of existence, the roles we play, and the acceptance of one’s place in the world. Through the voice of the flea, Merwin explores the complexities of identity, responsibility, and the often-unseen connections that bind all life together. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own roles and responsibilities, and to consider how even the smallest, most seemingly insignificant beings contribute to the greater whole. Through its simple yet profound narrative, the poem ultimately suggests that every creature, no matter how small or disliked, has a purpose that is essential to the fabric of existence.


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