Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Howard Nemerov's poem "Most Expensive Picture in the World" offers a contemplative critique of the relationship between art, value, and expectation. Through the lens of a collective experience, Nemerov explores the complex emotions and realizations that arise when encountering a highly acclaimed piece of art, challenging the notion of worth both in monetary and aesthetic terms.

The poem begins by setting the scene of anticipation and collective effort: "We stand in line all morning long to see it." This opening line emphasizes the investment of time and energy by the viewers, who are eager to witness something extraordinary. The extended wait builds up the expectation that what they are about to see will justify their patience.

As the viewers finally come "face to face / With the seamy canvas and its crackling glaze," Nemerov provides a vivid description of the artwork. The choice of words like "seamy" and "crackling" suggests a surface that is aged and perhaps not immediately beautiful, challenging the viewers' preconceived notions of what the "most expensive picture in the world" should look like. The figures in the painting "hover and glow from a black smoke / Of dried and crusted oils," evoking a sense of mystery and ethereal presence, yet also grounding the piece in its material reality.

Despite the initial impression, the viewers experience "a distinct sense of something's having failed." This feeling of letdown points to the dissonance between expectation and reality. The anticipation of seeing a masterpiece valued for its high price does not necessarily translate into a profound aesthetic or emotional experience. The phrase "How could we fail to be impressed?" suggests that the viewers feel a societal pressure to be awed by the painting's monetary value, even if their personal reactions are lukewarm.

The poem then delves into the ambiguity of the viewers' responses: "Either we are edified by that, or else / Not edified at all." This line captures the internal conflict and the difficulty of reconciling the external hype with personal experience. The viewers' struggle to feel genuinely moved by the painting highlights the tension between intrinsic artistic value and extrinsic financial worth.

As the group leaves, a thoughtful remark is made: "It is the most expensive picture, yes, / But only in the world." This concluding statement offers a nuanced perspective that distinguishes between worldly value and perhaps a higher, more transcendent form of worth. The addition of "only in the world" implies that while the painting may hold the highest monetary value on Earth, this does not necessarily equate to ultimate or universal significance.

Nemerov's poem thus critiques the commodification of art and the ways in which societal values can overshadow personal, authentic engagement with art. By focusing on the collective yet deeply individual experience of viewing the "most expensive picture," Nemerov invites readers to reflect on their own interactions with art and the often misguided emphasis on monetary value as a measure of true worth.

"Most Expensive Picture in the World" serves as a reminder that art's greatest value lies not in its price tag but in its ability to evoke, challenge, and inspire, encouraging viewers to seek meaning beyond superficial measures. Through its rich imagery and thoughtful reflection, the poem underscores the importance of personal connection and the profound, albeit sometimes elusive, experience of encountering art.

Copyright (c) 2024 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...