Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"In Loving Memory of the Late Author of Dream Songs" by William Meredith is a poignant elegy dedicated to John Berryman, the poet known for his *Dream Songs* series. The poem reflects on the complexities of Berryman's life, his struggles, and the impact of his suicide. Meredith grapples with the challenge of commemorating a friend and fellow poet who left a profound yet troubled legacy.

The poem opens with an intimate and conversational tone, addressing Berryman directly: "Friends making off ahead of time / on their own, I call that willful, John." This line suggests a sense of frustration or disbelief at Berryman's decision to end his life, described here as "making off ahead of time." The use of the term "willful" indicates a recognition of Berryman's agency in this act, yet it is not delivered as a harsh judgment but rather as a continuation of the "argument" they had in life.

Meredith recalls a vivid mental image of a "shaky man climb[ing] / a cast-iron railing in my head, on / a Mississippi bluff," symbolizing the moments leading up to Berryman's fatal leap. The speaker's attempt to "dissuade him" is futile, as "he doesn't hear," highlighting the isolation and unreachability that often accompany deep despair.

The poem then shifts to a more reflective tone, recounting Berryman's instructions for his epitaph: "'Fantastic! Fantastic! Thank thee, dear Lord' / is what you said we were to write on your stone." The irony of these joyous words contrasts sharply with the reality of Berryman's tragic end. The question of how Berryman "got / from here to there, a hundred feet straight down" underscores the bewilderment and sadness felt by those left behind, trying to make sense of the sudden descent "from the late height of your prizes."

Meredith acknowledges Berryman's dual nature, combining "indignation" with tenderness: "part howl only, part of it was caress." This duality is further emphasized by describing Berryman as "fastidious John of the gross disguises," indicating his careful, meticulous nature juxtaposed with a propensity for presenting different personas. The poem references Berryman's acknowledgment of despair in his work, describing it as "this work of almost despair," capturing the deep sense of hopelessness that pervaded his writing.

The poem then transitions to a reflection on the theme of "morale," which Meredith considers crucial in the aftermath of such a loss. He contemplates the moral implications of Berryman's suicide, quoting the belief that "suicide is a crime / and that wives and children deserve better than this." This line reflects societal judgments on suicide and the responsibilities felt towards loved ones. However, Meredith balances this with a profound acknowledgment of Berryman's unique contributions, stating, "None of us deserved, of course, you."

The elegy closes with a mixture of confusion and determination. The question, "Do we wave back now, or what do we do?" expresses the uncertainty of how to honor Berryman's memory. Meredith resolves to continue the work of praise and remembrance, "look[ing] for things / to praise on the riverbanks," a metaphor for finding beauty and meaning in life. The phrase "We are all relicts, of some great joy, wearing black" poignantly captures the collective mourning and the enduring joy Berryman brought through his poetry.

The final lines offer a plea for continued engagement with Berryman's work: "Wave from the fat book again, make us wave back." This metaphorical waving from the "fat book" of Berryman's collected works suggests a desire for the poet's voice to continue inspiring and engaging readers, even after his death. It also implies a reciprocal relationship between the poet and his audience, one that persists through the written word.

"In Loving Memory of the Late Author of Dream Songs" is a nuanced tribute that grapples with the complexities of memorializing a brilliant but troubled figure. Meredith balances an honest acknowledgment of Berryman's flaws and struggles with a deep appreciation for his artistic legacy. The poem ultimately serves as a reminder of the enduring power of art and the human need to find meaning in the face of loss.

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