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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
Muriel Rukeyser's poem "Certain Music" explores the profound impact of music on the human soul, intertwining themes of renewal, loss, and the enduring power of art. Through vivid and evocative language, Rukeyser delves into the transformative experience of music, particularly focusing on how it becomes an integral part of the self. The poem opens with a declaration of completeness achieved through music: "Never to hear, I know in myself complete / that naked integrated music; now / it has become me, now it is nerve, song, gut." These lines convey a deep sense of internalization, where music is not merely heard but felt and lived within the very fabric of the speaker's being. The words "nerve, song, gut" emphasize the physical and emotional embodiment of music, suggesting a profound and holistic integration. Rukeyser acknowledges the influence of Mozart, stating, "and my gross hand writes only through Mozart; see / even in withholding what you have brought to me." Mozart represents an ideal of musical perfection and emotional expression, and the speaker's creative output is deeply intertwined with this inspiration. The idea of "withholding" suggests a loss or absence, yet the impact of Mozart's music remains, shaping the speaker's artistic expression even in its absence. The poem continues with a sense of reconciliation and renewal: "Renewed, foolish, reconciled to myself, I walk / this winter-country, I fly over its still-flock’d clouds." The imagery of a "winter-country" and "still-flock’d clouds" evokes a cold, serene landscape, symbolizing a period of introspection and solitude. Despite the harshness of winter, the speaker feels renewed and reconciled, finding a sense of purpose and direction through the memory and influence of music. Rukeyser beautifully captures the resilience of the human spirit: "always in my isolated flesh I take / that theme’s light certainty of absolute purpose / to make quick spirit when spirit most might break." Here, the "theme’s light certainty" refers to the unwavering guidance and strength derived from music, which sustains the speaker even in moments of potential despair. The music's purpose is to invigorate and uplift, preventing the spirit from breaking. The poem's tone shifts with an expression of longing and loss: "Naked you walked through my body and I turned / to you with this far music you now withhold. / O my destroyed hope!" These lines suggest an intimate connection that has been severed, leaving the speaker with a sense of desolation. The "far music" that is now withheld represents a profound loss, yet it also highlights the enduring impact of this connection. Despite this loss, the speaker finds solace and continuity in the presence of music: "Though I never again / hear developing heaven, the growing grave-bearing earth, / my poem, my promise, my love, my sleep after love." The repetition of "my" emphasizes personal possession and the deep connection to these elements. Music continues to influence the speaker's life and work, providing a sense of continuity and hope. The poem concludes with a reaffirmation of the enduring power of music: "my hours, listening, along that music move, / and have been saved and hardly know the cold." Even in the absence of direct experience, the memory and influence of music provide warmth and salvation. The speaker's hours are guided by this "certain music," allowing them to transcend the coldness and isolation of their environment. In "Certain Music," Muriel Rukeyser captures the transformative power of music, illustrating how it becomes an integral part of the self, providing strength, inspiration, and solace. Through rich imagery and emotional depth, the poem explores themes of loss, renewal, and the enduring impact of art on the human soul. Rukeyser's masterful use of language creates a poignant and resonant reflection on the profound connection between music and the human experience.
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