Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Cantilever" by John Ashbery presents a whimsical and surreal journey that explores themes of decision-making, the pursuit of knowledge, and the complexities of human experiences. Ashbery, known for his intricate and often abstract poetry, crafts a narrative that is both playful and enigmatic, inviting deep reflection on the nature of choice and the journey of life.

The poem opens with a sense of regret or second-guessing, "I knew we should have stopped back there / by the pudding station," immediately establishing a tone of missed opportunities or choices. The mention of the "pudding people" being "full of themselves" adds a humorous and slightly absurd element, suggesting the presence of self-importance or pretension even in seemingly trivial contexts.

The reference to the Sphinx and the riddle-like bonus answer, "As honey is to the jaguar," introduces a mythological and mysterious dimension. This allusion to the Sphinx, a figure known for posing challenging riddles, symbolizes the search for wisdom and the complexities of understanding.

The claim of having "so well all along too" suggests a journey or path that has been confidently followed, despite its peculiarities and the unforeseen challenges it presents.

The mention of "the world’s longest single cantilever span" represents a significant point or milestone in the journey. A cantilever span, in architecture and engineering, is a projecting structure supported only at one end, symbolizing perhaps a venture into the unknown or a daring feat of balance and engineering.

The closing line, "I am numb with thrips," adds an unexpected and intriguing twist. Thrips are tiny insects, and their mention here could symbolize minor irritations or overwhelming sensations that accompany the journey, reflecting the often overwhelming nature of new experiences or ventures.

"Cantilever" is a thought-provoking and imaginative poem that invites readers to ponder the intricacies of decision-making, the pursuit of knowledge, and the unexpected turns of life's journey. Ashbery’s use of vivid imagery, playful language, and abstract thought creates a narrative that resonates with the unpredictability and richness of the human experience.

POEM TEXT: https://yalereview.org/article/cantilever

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