Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

John Ashbery's poem "Angels (You, know who you are)" is a reflective and whimsical exploration of aging, time, and the nature of human experience. The poem, characterized by Ashbery's signature blend of the surreal and the mundane, invites the reader into a world where the boundaries between reality and imagination are fluid.

The poem opens with an address to the angels, suggesting a return "when you've aged a little, when the outdoors is an attractive curiosity no longer." This intriguing invitation sets the stage for a meditation on the passage of time and the shift in perspective that often accompanies aging. The notion of the outdoors transforming from a source of wonder to merely a curiosity reflects a change in how one engages with the world as they grow older.

Ashbery's mention of "waving turquoise mittens extantly" introduces a vivid, playful image that contrasts with the more somber theme of aging. This juxtaposition of the whimsical and the profound is a hallmark of Ashbery's style, creating a dynamic and multifaceted narrative.

The reference to "old Steffi Duna movies" and the speaker's need to "polish my speech" suggests a nostalgia for the past and a recognition of the changes that come with time. The mention of being "warned about the consequences" implies a sense of caution or restraint learned over a lifetime.

The metaphor of a "spermatozoid that's lost its way and doesn't dare ask directions" is particularly striking. This image captures a sense of uncertainty and vulnerability, reflecting the human condition's inherent confusion and the fear of seeking help or admitting ignorance.

Ashbery's contemplation of the "winter circuit" closing down, possibly forever, evokes a sense of finality and the end of a cycle. This could be interpreted as a metaphor for the end of a particular phase of life or the inevitability of change.

The poem then shifts to a commentary on societal decay and the mimicry of "rot and corruption" by the fashion-conscious. This observation speaks to the theme of superficiality and the imitation of negative trends in society.

The line "I must sugar my hair" adds a touch of surreal humor, while the query about the speaker's "factotum" and the mention of "one more in your party" create a sense of anticipation or unresolved business. These elements contribute to the poem's dreamlike and enigmatic atmosphere.

The concluding line, "Suddenly the day is crocus-sweet," offers a sudden shift to a more positive and vibrant image. This change in tone might represent a moment of clarity or beauty amidst the complexities and ambiguities of life, capturing the poem's overall theme of the fluctuating nature of human experience.

In summary, "Angels (You, know who you are)" is a quintessentially Ashberian poem that weaves together diverse themes and images to explore aging, change, and the human condition. Ashbery's unique poetic voice creates a narrative that is both enigmatic and deeply resonant, inviting readers to engage with the nuances and complexities of life's journey.

POEM TEXT:

https://www.google.com/books/edition/Can_You_Hear_Bird/RCl5BAAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1

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