Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov's poem "Avowal" is a meditation on faith, surrender, and grace, dedicated to Carolyn Kizer and John Woodbridge, in recollection of celebrating George Herbert's birthday in 1985. Through vivid, natural imagery and a contemplative tone, Levertov explores the desire to achieve a state of spiritual surrender and trust in a higher power.

The poem begins with a simile that likens the desired state of being to the serene confidence of swimmers: "As swimmers dare to lie face to the sky / and water bears them." This image evokes a sense of trust and relaxation, as the swimmers' bodies are supported effortlessly by the water. The phrase "dare to lie face to the sky" suggests a bold act of vulnerability and openness, essential qualities for spiritual surrender.

Levertov extends this imagery to the natural world with hawks: "as hawks rest upon air / and air sustains them." The hawks, masters of the skies, glide and rest upon the air currents with innate ease, representing a harmonious relationship with their environment. This effortless balance and trust in the air's support mirror the spiritual state Levertov aspires to: a faith that allows one to be upheld by an unseen force.

The poem's turning point comes with the line "so would I learn to attain freefall, and float / into Creator Spirit's deep embrace." Here, Levertov explicitly connects the natural imagery to her spiritual yearning. The act of "freefall" suggests a complete release of control and a leap of faith, while "float" conveys a sense of peaceful surrender. The "Creator Spirit's deep embrace" represents the divine presence that the speaker seeks to immerse herself in, an all-encompassing and supportive force.

Levertov acknowledges that this state of grace is not something that can be earned through effort: "knowing no effort earns / that all-surrounding grace." This line highlights a fundamental principle of many spiritual traditions: grace is a gift freely given, not a reward for human endeavor. The "all-surrounding grace" is described as an omnipresent force that envelops and sustains, echoing the earlier imagery of water and air.

Structurally, the poem's free verse form reflects the fluidity and natural progression of the speaker's thoughts and imagery. The lack of rigid structure allows for a more organic and introspective exploration of the theme, mirroring the desired state of effortless trust and surrender.

The dedication to Carolyn Kizer and John Woodbridge, and the mention of celebrating George Herbert's birthday, adds a layer of personal and literary context. George Herbert, a 17th-century poet known for his deeply religious and contemplative poetry, serves as an inspiration for Levertov's reflections on faith and grace. The celebration of his birthday becomes a moment of shared spiritual connection and literary appreciation, linking Levertov's musings to a broader tradition of devotional poetry.

In "Avowal," Denise Levertov masterfully captures the essence of spiritual surrender and the longing for divine grace. Through her use of natural imagery and contemplative language, she conveys a profound sense of trust and the desire to be upheld by a higher power. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of faith and surrender, encouraging a release of control and an embrace of the grace that surrounds us. Levertov's poetic meditation serves as a reminder of the beauty and peace that can be found in letting go and trusting in the sustaining presence of the divine.

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