Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

John Ashbery's poem "Ongoing Story" is a reflective and introspective exploration of the passage of time, the nature of happiness, and the complexity of human connections. Known for his evocative and often enigmatic style, Ashbery weaves a narrative that oscillates between personal contemplation and broader philosophical musings.

The poem opens with a candid admission: "I could say it's the happiest period of my life." This statement, tempered by the acknowledgement of its lack of competition, sets a tone of wistful introspection. The speaker reflects on the previous day as a period of "flatness, hotness," suggesting a sense of monotony and unremarkableness. However, today, this period "sheds that old name, without assuming any new one," indicating a subtle but significant shift in perception or understanding.

The metaphor of being left on an empty street after a bus has pulled away evokes a sense of missed opportunities or fleeting moments. The "dollop of afternoon wind" adds a tactile and transient element to this scene of quiet reflection. The suggestion to "take your attention off it" and the questioning of whether "people really talk that way" reveal a skepticism towards conventional wisdom and societal norms.

Ashbery then delves into the concept of reality and existence, pondering the significance of "great ideas" and questioning their relevance if they are misplaced or disconnected from the self. The reference to Sydney Carton and the guillotine, characters and themes from Charles Dickens' "A Tale of Two Cities," introduces elements of sacrifice and identity crisis.

The poem subtly shifts to consider the role of knowledge and the fleeting nature of experiences. The ringing phone that turns out to be a wrong number symbolizes the randomness of life and the relief that comes from avoiding familiar, mundane choices. This ties into the theme of human connections, where the speaker expresses a deep, albeit selective, appreciation for individual distinctness and the reality of others.

The final lines of the poem underscore the value of knowing that "people live close by" and the solidity of even the most superficial relationships ("even if only first names are ever exchanged"). This recognition of the inherent value and self-sufficiency of others speaks to the poem's overarching theme of finding contentment and connection in the ongoing story of life.

In summary, "Ongoing Story" by John Ashbery is a thoughtful meditation on life's complexities, the nature of happiness, and the intricacies of human relationships. Through a blend of personal introspection and philosophical inquiry, the poem invites the reader to consider the ephemerality of moments, the value of individual distinctness, and the subtle shifts in perception that define our understanding of ourselves and the world around us. Ashbery's nuanced approach and rich imagery offer a layered and poignant reflection on the continuous narrative of human existence.

POEM TEXT: https://archives.newyorker.com/newyorker/1983-06-27/flipbook/040/

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