Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Leeeward" by John Ashbery unfolds as a surreal and enigmatic narrative, weaving together disparate images and ideas to create a tapestry that is both intriguing and challenging to interpret. The poem's title, "Leeeward," refers to the side of a ship that is sheltered from the wind, suggesting a place of relative calm or protection, yet Ashbery's poem delves into themes of perception, reality, and the unexpected.

The poem opens with an image of a "penumbra," a term that typically refers to a partially shaded area in an eclipse or the shadow's outer region. This image of a half-light or a transitional space sets the tone for the poem, which navigates through ambiguity and half-seen truths: "Up, up it rises, the penumbra, for all to see. / Heaven is open-make no mistake." This proclamation of an open heaven juxtaposed with the rising penumbra suggests a revelation or an unveiling, yet the nature of what is revealed remains elusive.

The shifting and sliding of books, possibly indicating a supernatural or unexplained event, introduces a sense of the uncanny. The appearance of the "tubby guy" who sneers and snickers at the sight adds a layer of human reaction – perhaps skepticism or disbelief – to the strange occurrence. This character's realization that there are "other strands in that equation" hints at a deeper, more complex reality beneath the surface of everyday experiences.

The mention of "green spoilage," possibly a metaphor for decay or corruption, is set against the mundane act of wearing and washing a shirt. This contrast between the extraordinary and the ordinary is a hallmark of Ashbery's poetry, which often finds the profound in the prosaic.

The closing lines introduce a bear, a symbol that could represent nature, the wild, or perhaps an aspect of the human psyche. The bear's confusion at being feared by children adds a poignant touch to the poem, suggesting misunderstanding or misplaced fear. The bear's presence also raises questions about our relationship with the natural world and our perceptions of threat or safety.

"Leeeward" is typical of Ashbery's style, characterized by its rich imagery, layered meanings, and open-ended interpretation. The poem invites the reader to explore the nuances of perception and reality, challenging us to consider the complexities and contradictions of the human experience.

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