Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Patience" by Stephen Dobyns presents a vivid portrait of adolescent restlessness and the struggle with self-identity, depicted through the metaphor of a young girl playing solitaire. The poem navigates through the tumultuous inner world of the protagonist, who is caught between childhood whimsy and the burgeoning desires and frustrations of approaching adulthood. Dobyns uses a series of hypothetical situations and internal monologues to explore themes of rebellion, self-discovery, and the longing for identity and autonomy.

The poem opens with a series of "What if" scenarios that depict the girl's suppressed desire for chaos and attention. Biting the family terrier, vomiting on her mother's disliked rug, and wishing harm upon herself to garner the affection of a young doctor are dramatic expressions of a deep-seated frustration and a plea for recognition. These actions, however fantastical, signal an intense emotional turmoil and a desire to break free from the constraints of her current life.

Central to the poem is the game of solitaire, which becomes a metaphor for the girl's isolation and her attempt to impose order on her chaotic emotions. The setting—a French table with green baize, forbidden by her mother to be used—further symbolizes the rebellion against authority and the conventional expectations placed upon her. The game itself, requiring patience and solitary engagement, mirrors her internal struggle and the monotony of waiting for something to happen in her life.

The mention of "a skirt to buy and two books on the great poisoners" reflects the girl's attempt to craft an identity that impresses her peers, suggesting her awareness of the social dynamics that govern adolescent interactions. It also hints at her fascination with the macabre, an escape from the banality of her existence. The cards, especially the club jack and the queen of hearts, become objects of contemplation, leading her to ponder the deeper meanings of life and her place within it.

The poem subtly addresses the concept of the "better self," a version of the protagonist that adheres to societal and parental expectations, contrasting sharply with her current rebellious disposition. This internal conflict is a critical part of the poem, highlighting the struggle between conforming to external expectations and the desire to assert one's individuality. The girl's refusal to be dominated by this "better self" signifies a pivotal moment of self-assertion and the rejection of a purely compliant identity.

Towards the end, the girl's fantasized confrontation with her father and her wish to be acknowledged as the king of spades' daughter are powerful expressions of her quest for a distinct identity. These fantasies reveal her deep-seated need for validation and a sense of belonging, albeit in a more sinister or unconventional family than her own. It underscores the complexity of adolescent identity formation, where the lines between reality and desire, conformity and rebellion, are often blurred.

In conclusion, "Patience" by Stephen Dobyns masterfully captures the essence of adolescent turmoil through the lens of a young girl's rebellious fantasies and her engagement with a simple card game. The poem delves into themes of identity, autonomy, and the conflict between individual desires and societal expectations. Through vivid imagery and a poignant narrative, Dobyns articulates the universal struggle of growing up and the quest for self-understanding amidst the constraints of the familial and social milieu.

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