Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov's "A Clearing" eloquently describes the discovery of an idyllic sanctuary hidden at the end of a country driveway. The poem contrasts the often disappointing reality of such explorations with the rare, harmonious beauty that can sometimes be found. Through vivid imagery and reflective insights, Levertov explores themes of nature, creation, and the harmonious relationship between humans and their environment.

The poem opens with a universal curiosity: "What lies at the end of enticing / country driveways, curving / off among trees?" This question sets the reader on a journey, stirring the anticipation of discovery. Levertov quickly tempers this anticipation with the common reality: "Often only / a car graveyard, a house-trailer, / a trashy bungalow." These images of decay and neglect contrast sharply with the expectations set by the "enticing" driveways, highlighting the disparity between expectation and reality.

However, this particular driveway defies expectations: "But this one, / for once, brings you / through the shade of its green tunnel / to a paradise of cedars." The driveway leads not to disappointment but to a "paradise" characterized by natural beauty and tranquility. The description of "lawns mown but not too closely, / of iris, moss, fern, rivers of stone rounded / by sea or stream" paints a picture of a place where nature is carefully tended but not overly controlled, maintaining a balance between order and wildness.

The wooden house that stands within this clearing is described as "unassertive" with "large windows," blending seamlessly into its natural surroundings. This house, built by the hands of its inhabitants, represents a harmonious relationship between humans and their environment. The "big trees enclose / an expanse of sky," providing a protective canopy that offers shelter from the "assaultive world" outside.

Levertov reflects on the feeling of arrival at this sanctuary: "One is sheltered here / from the assaultive world / as if escaped from it, and yet / once arrived, is given (oneself / and others being a part of that world) / a generous welcome." This paradox of being both separate from and part of the world underscores the poem's exploration of how one can find peace and refuge without entirely disconnecting from reality.

The clearing is described as "paradise / as a paradigm for how / to live on earth, / how to be private and open / quiet and richly eloquent." This model of living suggests that true harmony involves a balance between seclusion and openness, silence and expression. The man-made elements of this sanctuary are noted to be "truly made by the hands / of those who live here," emphasizing the personal investment and care that have gone into creating this space.

Levertov concludes that this paradise is "a kind of poem; it has / a poem's characteristics: / inspiration; starting with the given; / unexpected harmonies; revelations." By likening paradise to a poem, she highlights the creative process involved in both, suggesting that both require inspiration, a starting point, and the discovery of unexpected beauty and insight.

"A Clearing" by Denise Levertov is a rich and reflective poem that explores the creation and discovery of a harmonious sanctuary. Through vivid and detailed imagery, Levertov illustrates how such a place can serve as a model for living, emphasizing the importance of balance, care, and creativity. The poem invites readers to consider how they might create their own sanctuaries and find moments of peace and revelation in their everyday lives.

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