Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Jack Gilbert's poem "In Dispraise of Poetry" employs a powerful metaphor to critique the burdens and paradoxes inherent in the poetic vocation. By likening poetry to the gift of a white elephant, Gilbert explores themes of obligation, ruin, and the inescapable nature of the artistic pursuit.

The poem opens with a historical reference: "When the King of Siam disliked a courtier, he gave him a beautiful white elephant." This sets the stage for the central metaphor, as the white elephant is a rare and sacred animal in Siamese culture, symbolizing both an honor and a curse. The gift of the white elephant is paradoxical: it is a precious and revered animal that demands immense care and resources, often leading to financial ruin for its caretaker.

Gilbert elaborates on this paradox: "The miracle beast deserved such ritual that to care for him properly meant ruin. / Yet to care for him improperly was worse." These lines underscore the impossible situation faced by the recipient of the white elephant. Proper care requires immense effort and resources, leading to inevitable financial hardship. On the other hand, neglecting the elephant brings dishonor and potentially worse consequences. This dilemma mirrors the experience of a poet, who must devote themselves entirely to their craft, often at great personal cost.

The concluding line, "It appears the gift could not be refused," emphasizes the inevitability and inescapability of the burden. Just as the courtier cannot refuse the king's gift, a true poet cannot turn away from their calling. The gift of poetry, like the white elephant, is both a privilege and a burden, demanding complete dedication while offering no guarantee of reward or relief.

"In Dispraise of Poetry" uses the metaphor of the white elephant to highlight the complex and often contradictory nature of the poetic vocation. Through this lens, Gilbert suggests that poetry, while beautiful and miraculous, also brings with it an inescapable burden. The poem critiques the romanticized view of the poet's life, instead presenting it as an unrefusable gift that can lead to ruin if not approached with reverence and care. Gilbert’s concise yet profound exploration invites readers to consider the sacrifices and challenges that accompany the pursuit of artistic excellence, shedding light on the often-overlooked hardships of the poet's journey.

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