Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Jane Kenyon’s poem “Whirligigs” captures a unique blend of whimsical imagery and deeper reflection on the themes of perseverance, routine, and a sense of family. Through her detailed description of these mechanical figures, Kenyon invites readers to ponder the intersection of the mundane and the enduring, and how we find companionship and meaning in seemingly inanimate objects.

The poem begins with a vivid portrayal of two whirligig figures: “Two bearded men: one chops a log, the other milks a cow.” This straightforward description immediately sets the scene, depicting the whirligigs in perpetual motion. The specificity of their actions—chopping a log and milking a cow—grounds the poem in the rural, agricultural imagery typical of Kenyon’s work.

Kenyon then adds a layer of endurance and futility: “Even at night they turn their backsides to the strongest gusts and work like mad, but never finish, though they bend over the same log and the same cow for the third year in a row.” This line captures the Sisyphean nature of their tasks, emphasizing the endless repetition and their resilience against the elements. The whirligigs’ perpetual motion becomes a metaphor for the ongoing, often unending labor inherent in life.

The transition to winter reveals a tender, almost anthropomorphic view of the whirligigs: “They winter in the cellar, / near the apple cider kegs. For all I know they take a nip or two, pass stories back and forth with a speckled tinware cup.” Here, Kenyon imagines the figures coming to life, sharing drinks and stories, which adds a touch of warmth and humor to the poem. This personification suggests a deeper connection between the speaker and the whirligigs, hinting at the companionship they provide.

As spring arrives, the whirligigs are reinstated: “Come spring I reinstate them on weathered poles among the scilla and early daffodils.” The act of placing them back among the blooming flowers symbolizes renewal and continuity. The seasonal cycle underscores the persistence and rhythm of life, mirrored in the whirligigs’ unending tasks.

The poem concludes with a reflection on the sense of family and unity: “I think they must be brothers... and we three make a family, waving our arms to scare the crows away.” By considering the whirligigs as brothers, Kenyon deepens the sense of connection and solidarity. The speaker includes herself in this familial unit, creating an image of unity and shared purpose. The final image of them waving their arms to scare the crows away serves as a metaphor for their collective effort to protect and preserve their environment.

In “Whirligigs,” Jane Kenyon masterfully blends whimsy with profound reflection, using the mechanical figures to explore themes of perseverance, routine, and the creation of familial bonds. Through her evocative language and imaginative portrayal, Kenyon invites readers to consider the ways in which we find companionship and meaning in the simple, enduring aspects of life. The poem serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty and significance found in the everyday, and the quiet strength that comes from enduring together.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...