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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
The poem opens with the concept of "wonderful things" being planted on the "surface of a round mind," suggesting the formation of ideas or perceptions in a consciousness that will evolve into the present time. This imagery invites readers to consider the fluid and subjective nature of time and reality, as shaped by individual minds. Ashbery plays with the idea of ownership and wisdom, suggesting that if the original perceiver of these "wonderful things" had been wise, our current understanding of the world might be vastly different. The mention of "an angel bandaged the field glasses" implies a distortion or limitation in our perception, further complicating our understanding of reality. The poem reflects on the closure of borders between people, a metaphor for the breakdown of communication and understanding. Yet, despite this, the world is described as being "different without having changed," pointing to the paradox of change that is both perceptible and imperceptible, depending on one's viewpoint. The poet delves into existential themes, contemplating the possibility of things dying, provided they are seized by an anemone and taken to "the wildest heaven." This imagery suggests a transformation or transcendence of the mundane into the divine, a recurring theme in Ashbery's work. The poem addresses the human condition, contrasting the cold truth with the warmth of human experience and desire. The speaker yearns to escape from himself, weary of the constraints of reality, and drawn to the freedom and unpredictability of nature. Gender dynamics are explored through the depiction of man and woman. Woman is portrayed as being "completely out of this world," existing beyond the understanding and influence of man, symbolizing perhaps the elusive nature of certain truths or experiences. The poem concludes with reflections on the inevitability of change and the acceptance of it. The speaker recognizes that it is not the self that changes but the world around. Yet, in moments of solitude and contemplation, doubts arise, suggesting an ongoing struggle to reconcile with the ever-changing nature of existence. "Last World" is a rich tapestry of abstract thought, inviting readers to ponder the nature of their reality, the passage of time, and the human experience within the vast, incomprehensible universe. It is a quintessential Ashbery poem, blending surreal imagery with philosophical depth. POEM TEXT:
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