Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Broken Balance" is a poem by Robinson Jeffers, first published in 1941. The poem reflects on the relationship between humans and the natural world, and the ways in which our actions can upset the balance of the environment.

Explanation:

The poem begins with a description of the natural world, with its "wild, white horses" and "seabirds drawn from the heart of the ocean". The speaker emphasizes the beauty and power of the natural world, but also suggests that this balance is fragile and easily upset.

As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on the ways in which human activity has upset the balance of the environment, through pollution, overuse of resources, and other destructive practices. The poem suggests that humans have lost touch with the natural world, and that we must find a way to restore the balance before it is too late.

The poem ends on a note of urgency, with the speaker emphasizing the importance of taking action to protect the natural world and preserve the delicate balance of the environment.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: "The Broken Balance" is a free-verse poem with no set rhyme scheme or meter.
• Imagery: The poem uses vivid and powerful imagery, particularly in its descriptions of the natural world and the ways in which humans have upset the balance of the environment.
• Metaphor: The natural world is used as a metaphor for the broader themes of balance and harmony, emphasizing the fragility of these states and the importance of preserving them.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is urgent and concerned, emphasizing the importance of taking action to protect the environment and restore the balance of the natural world.

Summary:

"The Broken Balance" is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that reflects on the relationship between humans and the natural world. Jeffers' poem emphasizes the fragility of the balance between humans and the environment, and suggests that we must take action to restore this balance before it is too late. It is a reminder of the importance of protecting the natural world and preserving the delicate balance of the environment, for the sake of both ourselves and future generations.

Poem Snippet:

"Much beauty, men say, is there but all

Is elsewhere, not here, the broken balance

Is not here. The chaos of our wish,

That it were not so painfully composed,

Governs the weather."

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