Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Protection" by Rita Dove is a poignant and introspective poem that weaves themes of loss, identity, and the elusive nature of closure. Through evocative imagery and questioning, Dove explores the emotional landscape of someone grappling with the aftermath of a departure or a significant change.

The poem opens with direct questions, "Are you having a good time? / Are you having a time at all?" immediately setting a tone of concern and contemplation. The questions suggest a separation or distance, probing the state of someone who is no longer present. The speaker appears to be seeking reassurance or connection, yet there's an underlying acknowledgment of uncertainty and possible finality.

Dove's imagery vividly captures the speaker's longing and the vivid memories of the person who is gone: "Everywhere in the garden I see the slim vine of your neck, the stubborn baby curls —". These descriptions not only reflect physical characteristics but also suggest growth and nature, linking the person to organic, living elements, which enhances the sense of loss when these qualities are just memories.

The reflection on hair brings a deeper cultural commentary, "Good" hair has no body in this country; like trained ivy, it hangs and shines." Here, Dove touches on issues of beauty standards and racial identity, implying that 'good' hair, as dictated by societal norms, lacks the natural essence and vitality associated with unaltered, natural hair. This line broadens the poem's scope, intertwining personal grief with societal critique.

As the poem progresses, the imagery becomes more desolate: "The Hawaiian mulberry is turning to ash / and the snail has lost its home." These lines symbolize decay and displacement, mirroring the speaker's emotional state. The transformation of the mulberry tree into ash and the homelessness of the snail depict a world in upheaval, where stability and familiarity are lost.

The closing lines, "Are you really all over with? How done is gone?" are particularly striking. These questions delve into the nature of ending and absence, challenging the finality of being 'done' or 'gone.' This query reflects the difficulty in accepting loss, the struggle to understand the permanence of change, and the lingering hope that perhaps it is not as final as it seems.

"Protection" is a beautifully crafted poem that captures the complexity of dealing with loss and the search for meaning in the aftermath. Rita Dove uses personal and cultural imagery to evoke a deep emotional response, leaving the reader to ponder the impermanence of presence and the enduring impact of absence.

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