Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Terror Is More Certain" by Bob Kaufman is a poem characterized by a stream-of-consciousness narrative style that juxtaposes personal, societal, and existential reflections. The poem explores themes of disillusionment, the absurdities of societal norms, and the struggles of artistic identity. Kaufman's work is marked by his distinctive voice and non-linear narrative, blending surrealism with poignant social commentary.

The poem opens with the line, "A terror is more certain than all the rare desirable popular songs I know," setting a tone of uncertainty and anxiety. Kaufman immediately establishes a contrast between the mundanity of everyday life and a deeper, more pervasive sense of terror. This terror seems to stem from an existential crisis, as the speaker grapples with the realities of his own existence and the banalities of modern life.

The imagery of "black shiny galoshes & carry dirty laundry to & fro" evokes a sense of mundane, routine tasks, while "read great books & don’t know criminals intimately" suggests a superficial engagement with the world, devoid of genuine, gritty experience. The reference to "wifeys that are lousy in bed" adds a layer of personal dissatisfaction and critique of conventional domestic life. The speaker's self-awareness about the perceived inadequacies of his writing, "because i am poor & symbolize myself," points to a deeper critique of the commodification of art and the struggle for authenticity in a commercialized society.

Kaufman continues with a satirical tone, questioning societal values: "How come they don’t give an academic award to all the movie stars that die? they’re still acting, ain’t they?" This line mocks the superficiality of fame and the posthumous valorization of celebrities, critiquing the absurdity of honoring dead actors as if their contributions continue beyond the grave.

The poem's shifting perspectives and fragmented narrative highlight Kaufman's skepticism toward societal norms and expectations. The mention of "too many basketball players in this world & too much progress in the burial industry" juxtaposes the trivialization of life (sports entertainment) with the commercialization of death. The call for "old fashioned funerals" where people "stand around & forgive" reflects a nostalgic yearning for genuine human connection and ritual, contrasting with the impersonal, modern approaches to life and death.

Kaufman's contemplation on artistic identity emerges in the line, "A certain me is desirable, what is so rare as air in a Poem," questioning the nature of originality and authenticity in art. The poem also delves into self-deprecating humor and surrealism with the mention of Gertrude Stein, a literary figure known for her avant-garde work, suggesting a playful yet critical engagement with literary traditions.

The poem concludes with a powerful commentary on the difficulties of being a poet in a world that commodifies everything, including art and intimacy. The line "who wants to be a poet & work a twenty four hour shift" underscores the relentless demands placed on artists. The speaker's desire "to be allowed not to be" reflects a deep existential fatigue and a rejection of societal pressures to conform to certain roles or expectations.

Kaufman further explores the intrusion of technology and surveillance into personal lives, "its no fun on top of a lady when her hair is full of shiny little machines," possibly alluding to the dehumanizing effects of technology and the loss of privacy. The final image of "cowboys watching" during an intimate moment underscores the pervasive, voyeuristic nature of media and societal scrutiny.

Overall, "A Terror Is More Certain" is a rich, multi-layered poem that blends social critique with existential musings, using a collage-like structure to capture the fragmented, chaotic nature of modern life. Kaufman's use of humor, satire, and surrealism creates a complex, thought-provoking exploration of identity, art, and societal norms.

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