Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Mary Oliver’s poem "The Poet Goes to Indiana" captures the rich tapestry of experiences she encountered while teaching in Indiana, blending moments of nature, connection, and personal achievement. Through a series of vivid, personal anecdotes, Oliver reflects on the worth of her journey and the unexpected beauty she found in her temporary home.

The poem begins with a direct address to the reader: "I'll tell you a half-dozen things / that happened to me / in Indiana / when I went that far west to teach. / You tell me if it was worth it." This opening sets a conversational tone and invites the reader to share in evaluating the significance of her experiences.

Living in the country with her dog was part of the deal: "I lived in the country / with my dog— / part of the bargain of coming." This establishes a sense of simplicity and companionship that defines her stay. The presence of a pond with exotic fish adds an element of curiosity and wonder: "And there was a pond / with fish from, I think, China. / I felt them sometimes against my feet." The fish, which even venture onto the grass, symbolize the unexpected and magical aspects of nature that she encounters.

Oliver observes wildlife, enhancing her connection with the natural world: "And I saw coyotes, / two of them, at dawn, running over the seemingly / unenclosed fields." This image of coyotes running freely captures the untamed beauty of the landscape. Her close encounter with a deer, "a buck, thick-necked, leaped / into the road just-oh, I mean just, in front of my car— / and we both made it home safe," illustrates the thrilling yet precarious interactions with wildlife that marked her time there.

A memorable interaction with a blacksmith reveals Oliver's resourcefulness and connection with animals: "I bargained with him, if I could catch the fourth, / he, too, would have hooves trimmed / for the Indiana winter." Her success in catching the horse with apples and a rope highlights her determination and the simple joys of achieving small victories.

The poem continues with a striking image of an owl: "and there was, one morning, / an owl / flying, oh pale angel, into / the hay loft of a barn, / I see it still." The owl, described as a "pale angel," evokes a sense of ethereal beauty and the timelessness of nature. This moment of seeing the owl remains vivid in her memory, underscoring its impact.

A particularly intimate moment with a new horse in the pasture captures the essence of connection and acceptance: "and she put her face against my face, / put her muzzle, her nostrils, soft as violets, / against my mouth and my nose, and breathed me, / to see who I was." This gentle, mutual exploration signifies a profound moment of trust and understanding between the poet and the horse. The horse's reaction, "stamped feet and whisked tail / and danced deliciously into the grass away, and came back," reflects a joyful acknowledgment of Oliver's presence, conveying that she is "good, or good enough."

The poem concludes with a reflective note: "Such a fine time I had teaching in Indiana." This final line encapsulates the overall sentiment of her stay, suggesting that the richness of her experiences outweighed any challenges or uncertainties.

Structurally, the poem’s free verse and flowing narrative style allow for a natural recounting of events, mirroring the organic way in which these experiences unfolded. Oliver's language is straightforward yet evocative, capturing the essence of each moment with clarity and depth.

In conclusion, "The Poet Goes to Indiana" by Mary Oliver is a heartfelt reflection on the beauty and significance of her time teaching in Indiana. Through a series of personal and vivid anecdotes, Oliver illustrates the profound connections she made with nature and animals, highlighting the worth and joy found in these experiences. The poem invites readers to appreciate the small, meaningful moments that define our lives and to recognize the unexpected wonders that can arise in new and unfamiliar places. Oliver's ability to convey deep reflections through simple, evocative language makes this poem a touching meditation on the value of embracing life's journeys.

 
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