Leap into the ripe air
E.E.Cummings (1894-1962) is widely regarded as one of the most innovative poets of the twentieth century, famous for his rejection of traditional poetry techniques and structures. He experimented radically with form, punctuation, syntax and spelling, to create a new, idiosyncratic and lyrical style of poetic expression. I have a number of favourites among his poems, but the one that I love the most is quoted below.
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I will wade out
till my thighs are steeped in burning flowers
i will take the sun in my mouth
and leap into the ripe air
Alive
with closed eyes
to dash against darkness
in the sleeping curves of my body
Shall enter fingers of smooth mastery
with chasteness of sea-girls
Will i complete the mystery
of my flesh
i will rise
After a thousand years
lipping
flowers
And set my teeth in the silver of the moon
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My thoughts
To me, this poem speaks of being intensely alive - of being spontaneous and making the most of every living moment. I find this poem very vibrant and sensual - it perfectly captures the feeling of motion through active images such as "leap", "dash" and "rise" which emphasize the vitality of life. It also conveys to me the joy of awakening one's true self amidst nature - of being one with the flowers, the sun and the moon.
What does this poem convey to you?
What does this poem convey to you?
This poem is the kind which infuses energy even on a Monday and that's saying a lot! It also suggests fortitude and courage to me when I read the lines 'dash against the darkness' and how difficult times need not necessarily affect the spirit of being alive. Another lovely one of your selections:)
ReplyDeleteWow, I had never thought of the fortitude part! See how poems convey different things to different readers - that's why I love poems so much. A wealth of emotions and interpretations can be hidden behind a simple line or phrase :)
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