Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Tony Hoagland's poem "Lawrence" is a passionate defense of D. H. Lawrence, a literary figure often met with derision by contemporary critics and casual readers. Hoagland uses vivid imagery, sharp wit, and a tone that fluctuates between frustration and admiration to underscore the profound impact Lawrence had on literature and the injustice of his dismissal by those who fail to appreciate his contributions.

The poem begins with the speaker's admission of failing to defend Lawrence on "two occasions in the past twelve months" when his name was mentioned with "dismissive scorn" at a party. This sets up a conflict between the reverence the speaker feels for Lawrence and the casual contempt expressed by others. The metaphor of Lawrence as "a man who burned like an acetylene torch / from one end to the other of his life" highlights the intensity and fervor with which Lawrence lived and wrote, contrasting starkly with the dull and dismissive attitudes of the partygoers.

Hoagland's disdain for these individuals is palpable. He compares their relationship to literature to that of "a tree shredder / to stands of old-growth forest," suggesting that their superficial engagement with literature is destructive rather than appreciative. This metaphor emphasizes the depth and richness of Lawrence's work, which is reduced to mere fodder for shallow criticism by those who do not understand its value.

The partygoers' casual dismissal of Lawrence is likened to "pygmies with their little poison spears / strut[ting] around the carcass of a fallen elephant." This vivid imagery not only highlights the pettiness of their criticism but also underscores the magnitude of Lawrence's legacy, much like a majestic elephant brought down by small, venomous creatures. The poem criticizes the arrogance of those who belittle Lawrence, asserting that they lack the credentials or understanding to do so.

Hoagland's frustration extends to himself, as he acknowledges his own failure to defend Lawrence: "And though, in the catalogue of my betrayals, / this is a fairly minor entry." Despite this self-deprecation, the speaker resolves to speak up in the future, illustrating a personal commitment to honor Lawrence's legacy. The proposed retorts—such as comparing the critics to "maggots condescending to a corpse"—are both biting and humorous, capturing the speaker's disdain for their condescension.

The poem takes a turn towards the physical with the speaker contemplating "punch[ing] someone in the face" as a more direct expression of his frustration. This shift underscores the primal nature of human emotion and the visceral connection the speaker feels to Lawrence's work. Hoagland suggests that despite advances in civilization, humans remain fundamentally driven by base instincts, a theme Lawrence explored in his writings.

In the closing lines, Hoagland acknowledges Lawrence's ability to write about the raw, elemental aspects of human existence—"fight, and fuck, and crow"—in a way that elevates them to a form of magnificence. This final tribute to Lawrence encapsulates the poem's central argument: Lawrence's work captures the essence of what it means to be human, and his critics fail to recognize the beauty and truth in his portrayal of human nature.

"Lawrence" by Tony Hoagland is a fervent homage to D. H. Lawrence, celebrating his literary brilliance and lamenting the ignorance of those who fail to appreciate it. Through powerful metaphors, sharp critique, and a passionate defense, Hoagland calls for a recognition of Lawrence's contributions to literature and a more profound engagement with the truths he sought to reveal. The poem serves as both a critique of superficial literary criticism and a reminder of the enduring power of authentic, unflinching art.

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