Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov’s "Olga Poems" is a deeply personal and poignant series reflecting on the life, memory, and complex legacy of her mother, Olga Tatjana Levertoff. Through rich and evocative imagery, Levertov navigates the emotional landscape of her relationship with her mother, capturing moments of intimacy, conflict, and enduring love. Each section of the poem delves into different facets of Olga’s character and the profound impact she had on Levertov’s life.

The first section sets a tone of nostalgia mixed with grief. The scene of Olga by the gas-fire, her physical presence vividly described, contrasts sharply with the stark reality of her current state: "bones and tatters of flesh in earth." This juxtaposition of past vitality with present decay underscores the inevitability of mortality. The imagery of a "little sister beady-eyed in bed" adds a sense of innocence and intimacy, highlighting the familial bonds and the passage of time.

In the second section, Levertov explores Olga’s fierce spirit and her passionate social consciousness. The "high pitch of / nagging insistence" and "the skin around the nails nibbled sore" paint a picture of a woman driven by intense emotions and a relentless desire to effect change. The reference to "joy's socialist republic" and the vivid recollection of her rage upon witnessing slums reflect Olga’s deep-seated sense of justice and her struggle against social inequities. The contrasting images of the architectural appreciation and the "white candle in your heart" reveal the complexity of Olga’s character, marked by both anger and compassion.

The third section delves into Olga’s philosophical musings and her influence on Levertov’s childhood. The phrase "Everything flows" captures a sense of impermanence and continuity, a theme reinforced by the references to hymns and the passage of time. Levertov’s recollections of her mother’s attempts to manipulate and control life’s chaos hint at a turbulent inner world, a desire to impose order on the unpredictable. The imagery of Olga as an "incubus" riding "anguish as Tartars ride mares" emphasizes the intensity of her struggles and the profound impact they had on Levertov’s perception of her mother.

In the fourth section, Levertov reflects on Olga’s final days, marked by a complex mix of love and pain. The hospital bed becomes a symbol of her mother’s final struggles, where "hatreds that had followed you" and "disasters bred of love" are seen as having burned out. The phrase "Underneath are the everlasting arms" evokes a sense of spiritual solace, highlighting the enduring nature of Olga’s spirit even as her physical form deteriorated. This section poignantly captures the duality of suffering and love, with Olga's essence distilled to a "kind candle" amidst the turmoil.

The fifth section is a lyrical exploration of memory and the passage of time. Levertov’s reflections on her childhood interactions with Olga are suffused with a sense of wonder and loss. The imagery of gardens, hidden roots, and silent churches evokes a world of shared secrets and intimate discoveries. The references to Essex landscapes and the descriptions of walking through fields and lanes capture a sense of place and belonging. This section also highlights Olga’s resilience and determination, even in the face of solitude and alienation.

In the sixth section, Levertov reflects on the enduring presence of Olga’s memory, symbolized by her eyes, "the gold brown of pebbles under water." This metaphor captures the depth and mystery of Olga’s character, as well as the clarity and reflection her memory provides. Levertov recalls moments of shared experiences, such as playing Beethoven sonatas and exploring the New Forest, emphasizing the bond that persisted despite estrangement. The questions Levertov wishes to ask her mother underscore the lingering impact of Olga’s life on her own, suggesting a continuous search for understanding and connection.

The seventh section delves into Olga’s inner struggles and her attempts to confront and overcome the darkness within. The imagery of a young girl in the garden, "a bloodbeat" of dread against the "rolling dark oncoming river," captures the sense of foreboding and resilience that characterized Olga’s life. The alchemical square symbolizes the transformative power of her experiences, hinting at the profound impact of her spiritual and emotional journey.

Throughout the "Olga Poems," Levertov weaves a rich tapestry of memory, emotion, and reflection. She portrays her mother as a complex and multifaceted individual, whose life was marked by intense passions, deep struggles, and enduring love. The poems capture the essence of Olga’s spirit, her impact on Levertov’s life, and the lasting legacy of her memory. Through her evocative and deeply personal language, Levertov invites readers to share in the journey of understanding and honoring a remarkable woman.

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