Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Muriel Rukeyser's "Welcome from War" is a poignant and intimate poem that captures the deep emotional and physical toll of war on both individuals and relationships. The dialogue between the woman and the man reveals the profound changes and challenges they face as they attempt to reconnect and rebuild their lives in the aftermath of conflict.

The poem begins with a direct and startling question from the woman: "What is that on your hands? / It is also on my hands." This immediate focus on their hands suggests a shared experience of trauma and guilt, possibly alluding to the bloodshed and violence of war. The woman's recognition that she shares this with the man indicates that the impact of war has extended beyond the battlefield and into their home.

The next question, "What is that in your eyes? / You see it in my eyes, do you?" shifts the focus to the psychological scars of war. The mutual acknowledgment of seeing something troubling in each other's eyes highlights their shared pain and the deep emotional wounds they both carry. This mutual recognition is essential for their healing process, as it shows that they understand and empathize with each other's suffering.

The inquiry about their sexuality, "Is your sex intact? Is mine?" addresses the physical and intimate repercussions of war. The trauma has affected not only their bodies but also their ability to connect sexually. This line challenges the reader to consider the full spectrum of war's impact, from the physical to the deeply personal and intimate.

The line "Can it be about life now?" represents a turning point in the poem, suggesting a desire to move beyond the horrors of war and focus on rebuilding their lives. The woman acknowledges that "You went out to war. / War came over our house." This admission underscores that the man was not the only one affected; the war invaded their home and relationship, leaving nothing unchanged.

The statement "Our bed is not the same" symbolizes the altered state of their most private and intimate space. The bed, a place of rest and connection, has been disrupted by the intrusion of war, signifying the need to restore their relationship and sense of safety.

Despite the challenges, the woman expresses a commitment to renewal and healing: "We will set about beginnings. / I kiss your hands, I kiss your eyes, / I kiss your sex." These lines convey a powerful act of love and devotion. By kissing the man's hands, eyes, and sex, she acknowledges and blesses all parts of him, including those marked by war. This act of kissing is both a gesture of acceptance and a ritual of healing, aiming to cleanse and renew their bond.

The final lines, "I will kiss, I will bless / all the beginnings," reiterate the woman's determination to embrace and nurture the process of starting anew. Her repeated use of "kiss" and "bless" emphasizes the importance of love, tenderness, and hope in overcoming the scars of war.

"Welcome from War" is a deeply moving exploration of the personal and relational aftermath of conflict. Rukeyser's use of intimate dialogue and vivid imagery poignantly conveys the profound impact of war on individuals and their relationships. The poem ultimately offers a message of hope and resilience, highlighting the power of love and connection in the face of shared trauma.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...