Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Howard Nemerov's "Behavior" captures the essence of small, compassionate acts and the reverence for life that underpins our daily actions. Through its succinct and direct language, the poem reflects on the significance of these seemingly minor deeds, offering a contemplative look at human kindness and its broader implications.

The poem opens with a simple statement, "Among our good deeds of this date," which sets the stage for recounting the specific acts of kindness performed. This phrasing suggests a routine of reflecting on and acknowledging good actions, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in everyday life.

Nemerov first mentions, "Removed a turtle from the drive," an act that highlights both awareness and empathy. By moving the turtle to safety, the speaker demonstrates a respect for life and a willingness to intervene for the well-being of another creature. This act is followed by "And saved a drowning butterfly," further emphasizing the theme of compassion. The butterfly, a symbol of fragility and beauty, represents the delicate nature of life and the care required to preserve it.

These acts of kindness are small and unassuming, yet they reflect a broader moral philosophy. The speaker's attention to these minor creatures suggests a recognition of the interconnectedness of all life and a commitment to stewardship.

The poem transitions to a moment of reflection and gratitude: "At evening, bowing over meat, / We call down grace on all alive." This ritual of giving thanks extends the theme of reverence for life to a broader, more spiritual context. The act of bowing over a meal is a traditional gesture of gratitude and humility, acknowledging the sustenance provided by the natural world and the lives that have contributed to it.

By calling down grace "on all alive," the speaker expands the scope of gratitude to include all living beings, not just those directly benefiting from their actions. This inclusive blessing reinforces the poem's message of universal compassion and respect for life in all its forms.

Nemerov's choice of simple, direct language underscores the accessibility and universality of these themes. The poem's brevity and clarity make its message resonate, encouraging readers to recognize the significance of their own small acts of kindness and to cultivate a mindset of gratitude and respect for life.

In "Behavior," Howard Nemerov illustrates how everyday actions, even those as small as saving a turtle or a butterfly, contribute to a broader ethos of compassion and gratitude. Through its concise narrative and reflective tone, the poem invites readers to consider the impact of their behavior on the world around them and to embrace the practice of mindfulness and reverence in their daily lives.

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