Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Richard Wilbur?s "Opposites: 2" continues his playful engagement with the concept of opposites, this time exploring the contrast between flying and other states of movement or inactivity. Through its brevity and wit, the poem invites readers to consider oppositional relationships not as rigid binaries but as flexible, context-dependent constructs.

The poem begins with a direct and seemingly straightforward question: “What is the opposite of flying?” This question sets up the expectation of a clear, logical answer, only to immediately subvert it with a humorous observation: “For birds, it would be just not trying.” By framing the opposite of flying for birds as a lack of effort rather than a specific alternative action, Wilbur draws attention to the importance of perspective and context in defining opposites. The notion of “just not trying” evokes a sense of simplicity and humor, as it reduces the act of flying—often seen as an extraordinary or complex feat—to something as mundane as an act of will.

The second couplet shifts the focus to humans, suggesting that “the opposite for us” might be “to take a train or bus.” This comparison humorously contrasts the freedom and speed associated with flying with the more grounded and routine modes of transportation that characterize human travel. The mention of trains and buses anchors the poem in everyday life, highlighting the mundane alternatives to the exhilarating experience of flight. At the same time, the playful tone underscores the subjectivity of opposites; what constitutes an opposite depends on one’s perspective and circumstances.

The poem’s rhyme scheme and rhythm lend it a lighthearted, conversational quality. The alternating lines of inquiry and suggestion mimic the structure of a casual dialogue or thought process, drawing readers into the playful exploration of opposites. The simplicity of the language and structure belies the depth of the underlying reflection, as Wilbur subtly invites readers to reconsider how oppositional relationships are defined and understood.

"Opposites: 2" exemplifies Wilbur’s ability to blend humor, linguistic precision, and philosophical inquiry in a compact form. By focusing on the concept of flying and its various “opposites,” the poem highlights the fluidity and subjectivity of oppositional thinking. It encourages readers to approach language and meaning with curiosity and playfulness, celebrating the creative possibilities that arise from even the most ordinary ideas.

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