Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Jane Kenyon's poem “In Several Colors” captures the subtle beauty of everyday observations, highlighting how the changing hues of nature and the small details of daily life can evoke a sense of wonder and reflection. Through vivid imagery and keen attention to detail, Kenyon explores themes of perception, transformation, and the quiet joy found in the mundane.

The poem opens with a simple, familiar routine: “Every morning, cup of coffee / in hand, I look out at the mountain.” This image sets a tranquil scene, grounding the reader in the speaker’s daily life. The act of looking at the mountain each morning with a cup of coffee suggests a ritualistic appreciation of the natural world, a moment of contemplation that frames the day.

Kenyon then draws attention to the mountain's changing colors: “Ordinarily it's blue, but today / it's the color of an eggplant.” This shift from the usual blue to an eggplant hue signifies the ever-changing nature of the landscape and the impact of light and weather on perception. The use of “eggplant” as a descriptor adds a rich, specific visual quality, evoking a deep, vibrant purple that contrasts with the more common blue, emphasizing the beauty found in these subtle variations.

As the poem progresses, the focus shifts to the sky: “And the sky turns / from gray to pale apricot / as the sun rolls up / Main Street in Andover.” The transformation of the sky from gray to pale apricot mirrors the changing colors of the mountain, reinforcing the theme of natural transformation. The imagery of the sun “rolling up / Main Street in Andover” personifies the sun's movement, creating a charming, almost whimsical picture of the dawn breaking over the town.

Kenyon's observation extends to her immediate surroundings, as she turns her attention to the cat: “I study the cat's face / and find a trace of white / around each eye, as if / he made himself up today / for a part in the opera.” This detailed examination of the cat’s face reveals the speaker’s deep engagement with the world around her. The trace of white around the cat’s eyes is likened to stage makeup, transforming the cat into a performer ready for an opera. This playful comparison adds a touch of humor and creativity to the poem, showcasing Kenyon’s ability to find delight in the ordinary.

In “In Several Colors,” Jane Kenyon masterfully captures the beauty of everyday moments and the ever-changing nature of the world. Through her precise and evocative language, she invites readers to appreciate the subtle shifts in color and light that can transform familiar scenes into sources of wonder. The poem's focus on the mountain, the sky, and the cat highlights the interconnectedness of all things and the importance of being present and observant in our daily lives. Kenyon’s ability to find joy and meaning in the simple, everyday details makes this poem a testament to the richness of ordinary experiences and the power of attentive perception.

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