Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Lonely Operator" by John Ashbery is a meditative piece that delves into the nature of memory, the perception of art and entertainment, and the passage of time. The poem interweaves the narrator's experiences of watching movies at different stages of life, highlighting the shifting nature of perception and taste over time.

The poem begins with the narrator's recollection of watching "The Three Little Pigs" and "Bring 'Em Back Alive" as a child. This experience is framed within the context of a simpler time, characterized by going "downtown" for entertainment. The narrator's childlike acceptance of the films as 'normal' or 'reality' reflects the innocence and unfiltered perception of youth. This is contrasted with the later adult viewing of "Alice in Wonderland," where the realization of the actors' other roles and the disappointment with the film upon rewatching it as an adult illustrates the complexity and development of taste and critical thinking that come with experience.

The mention of "The Lonedale Operator," a silent film by D.W. Griffith, serves as a focal point for exploring themes of nostalgia and the ephemeral nature of memory. The narrator admits to remembering almost nothing of the film, which underscores the idea that memories, much like films, can be fleeting and subject to the distortions of time and perception.

Ashbery's reflection on the experience of watching movies is a metaphor for broader themes of life, change, and perception. The mention of innocence (Lillian Harvey) encountering romance (Willy Fritsch) and then stepping into terror highlights the unpredictable nature of life’s journey. The transformation of experiences and emotions is likened to the "swiftness of changing," suggesting that the true terror lies not in the events themselves but in the rapid and uncontrollable nature of change.

Through this poem, Ashbery artfully examines the interplay between personal growth, the passage of time, and the evolving nature of our understanding and appreciation of art and life. He suggests that our perceptions are continually reshaped by our accumulating experiences, leading to a complex and sometimes contradictory understanding of our past and present.

POEM TEXT: .https://www.vqronline.org/lonedale-operator#:~:text=By%20John%20Ashbery&text=The%20first%20movie%20I%20ever,the%20animal%20tamer%20Frank%20Buck.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...