Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"By the Flooded Canal" by John Ashbery is a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and the elusive nature of relationships, encapsulated through a series of vivid, sometimes surreal images and reflections. This poem, characteristic of Ashbery's work, weaves together the personal and the abstract, inviting readers into a contemplative narrative that resists straightforward interpretation. Through an analysis of the poem's themes, structure, form, and stylistic elements, we can delve into the intricate tapestry Ashbery creates, situating the poem within his broader exploration of the human condition.

The poem opens with a question of choice between two custards, a metaphorical dilemma that quickly transitions into a reflection on ambiguity and the complexities of desire and presence. The "dish of not-so-clean snow" and "sherry trifle with bloodlike jam" become symbols of life's choices, tinged with regret and uncertainty. Ashbery's mention of ambiguity sets the tone for the poem, highlighting the indeterminate nature of our decisions and relationships.

Meeting the narrator's partner's father serves as a catalyst for introspection, with the encounter prompting a realization of the passage of time and the unexpected turns life takes. The comparison of this realization to a book that comes up behind the narrator underscores the theme of life as a narrative filled with unforeseen chapters and characters.

The imagery of thoughts running away "into the wind" and the sense of losing oneself alongside the loss of another person encapsulates the poem's meditation on identity and the impact of relationships on our sense of self. Ashbery's reflection on the book "that nobody / Is ever going to read" and the bottle with an unread message washed ashore evoke feelings of existential solitude and the fear of being unheard or forgotten.

The combination of fog and wind, disliked by the narrator, along with the futile act of hanging laundry on a day that is "not a good drying day," illustrates the daily frustrations and the disconnect between expectation and reality. These domestic images are intertwined with the personal—"My news"—highlighting the private battles and internal narratives that often go unnoticed.

The question of coming to the flooded canal with the intention of killing something, followed by an admission of having "nothing in mind," delves into the complexities of intention and the human propensity for violence, whether literal or metaphorical. This moment in the poem underscores the tension between action and inaction, purpose and aimlessness.

Arranging pieces in a cardboard drawer, the uniqueness of each piece, and the preference for their dissimilarity reflect on the human desire for order amidst chaos and the appreciation for individuality. The narrative then shifts to more domestic and community-oriented scenes, from the kitten's disbelief to interactions with old men, suggesting a search for connection and understanding within everyday encounters.

Ashbery's assertion of contentment in playing a small role and the decision to go out to the garage in the closing lines symbolize a resignation to one's place in the world and the continuance of life's mundane routines. This acceptance, coupled with a commitment to work and strive for another's success, encapsulates the poem's exploration of purpose, dedication, and the quiet resignations that define much of human experience.

Structurally, "By the Flooded Canal" employs Ashbery's characteristic free verse, allowing for an organic flow of consciousness and a narrative that moves seamlessly between images, memories, and reflections. This structure supports the poem's thematic exploration of the fluidity of memory, the unpredictability of life, and the fragmented nature of self-understanding.

Stylistically, Ashbery's use of vivid imagery, juxtaposition, and shifts in tone captures the complexity of the human psyche and the multifaceted nature of our interactions with the world. His language, both precise and ambiguous, challenges readers to engage with the text on multiple levels, opening up spaces for personal interpretation and reflection.

In the broader context of Ashbery's work and postmodern literature, "By the Flooded Canal" reflects the ongoing preoccupation with questions of meaning, identity, and the elusive nature of truth. The poem invites readers into a reflective engagement with the intricacies of existence, offering a nuanced meditation on the themes that pervade much of Ashbery's distinguished oeuvre.

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