Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Louis Simpson’s poem "The Art of Storytelling" offers a reflective commentary on the nature of stories, their role in connecting us to our past, and the sometimes arbitrary yet comforting ways in which narratives are woven into our lives. Through the tale of a kosher butcher—referred to as a "shocket"—who is unexpectedly pressed into naval service, Simpson explores themes of identity, adventure, and the enduring significance of family connections.

The poem begins with the simple phrase "Once upon a time," immediately situating the narrative within the realm of traditional storytelling. The use of this phrase, often associated with fairy tales and fables, sets the stage for a story that, while seemingly ordinary, is imbued with a sense of timelessness and universality. The protagonist, a kosher butcher, is an unassuming figure who is suddenly thrust into an unexpected situation while "admiring the ships" at the harbor. This moment of innocent admiration is interrupted by the arrival of three sailors and an officer, who derogatorily address him as "Filth" and forcibly take him into the navy.

The abruptness of this turn of events reflects the arbitrary nature of fate in storytelling—how characters often find themselves in situations beyond their control, driven by the whims of the plot. The butcher’s forced conscription into the navy, however, is presented not as a tragedy but as another chapter in the story of his life. The line "It wasn't a bad life — nothing is" suggests a resigned acceptance of his new circumstances, emphasizing the idea that life, regardless of its twists and turns, is to be lived and experienced fully.

As the butcher adapts to his new life, he learns skills such as climbing and sewing, and acquires the ability to shout "Glad to be of service, Your Excellency!"—a phrase that reflects his need to conform to the demands of his new environment. The poem recounts his adventures at sea, including being "twice shipwrecked," which add a sense of excitement and unpredictability to his journey. Despite these experiences, the story ultimately returns him to his roots, as he makes his way back to the village and resumes his role as a kosher butcher. The circular structure of the narrative—beginning and ending with the protagonist in the same role—underscores the theme of continuity and the enduring nature of one’s identity, even after a lifetime of change and adventure.

The poem then shifts focus to the act of storytelling itself. The storyteller introduces a personal connection by claiming that the "shocket-sailor was one of our relatives, a distant cousin." This assertion, though perhaps dubious, is a crucial element in the art of storytelling within the context of family traditions. The line "Even if the story made no sense, / the one in the story would be a relative" highlights the importance of this connection. Whether or not the story is factually accurate or logically coherent is less important than the sense of belonging and continuity it provides to the listeners. The idea that the protagonist is a relative serves to anchor the story in the listeners’ lives, giving them a personal stake in the narrative and reinforcing their ties to their heritage.

The poem thus explores the ways in which stories, even those that may seem fantastical or disconnected from reality, play a vital role in maintaining a sense of identity and connection within a family or community. The act of telling a story becomes a way of asserting that no matter how far one might wander or how strange the circumstances, there is always a way back to one’s roots—a connection to something larger and more enduring.

"The Art of Storytelling" is a meditation on the power of narrative to shape our understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. Through the tale of the shocket-sailor and the reflection on familial storytelling, Simpson captures the essence of how stories, whether true or embellished, serve as a means of preserving identity, heritage, and the bonds that unite us. The poem reminds us that in the grand tapestry of life, it is the stories we tell and the connections we claim that give meaning to our experiences and anchor us in the ever-shifting currents of time.

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