Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov’s poem "Misnomer" challenges the notion of "the art of war" by contrasting the destructive nature of warfare with the life-giving essence of true art. Through powerful imagery and historical reference, Levertov argues that warfare is antithetical to the essence of art, which draws from the depths of the human soul and nurtures life.

The poem begins with a straightforward assertion: "They speak of the art of war, / but the arts / draw their light from the soul’s well." This line sets up the central dichotomy of the poem: the so-called art of war versus the true arts. By stating that the arts "draw their light from the soul’s well," Levertov emphasizes that genuine artistic creation is deeply connected to the human spirit, drawing from a source of inner light and life.

In stark contrast, Levertov describes warfare as something that "dries up the soul and draws its power / from a dark and burning wasteland." This vivid imagery conveys the desolation and devastation wrought by war. The "dark and burning wasteland" evokes a scene of utter destruction, devoid of the nourishing qualities that art provides. This wasteland is a source of darkness and ruin, highlighting the incompatibility between the destructive nature of war and the creative essence of art.

Levertov then introduces the historical figure of Leonardo da Vinci: "When Leonardo / set his genius to devising / machines of destruction he was not / acting in the service of art." Leonardo, renowned for his contributions to art and science, also designed war machines. Levertov points out that in doing so, he was not serving the cause of art but rather suspending it. This act of turning genius towards destruction represents a profound misuse of creative talent.

The poem’s climax is a striking and disturbing metaphor: "he was suspending / the life of art / over an abyss, / as if one were to hold / a living child out of an airplane window / at thirty thousand feet." This image of holding a child out of an airplane window at great height captures the precariousness and peril of diverting artistic genius towards war. The child, representing innocence and potential, is placed in extreme danger, symbolizing how the essence of art is threatened when it is co-opted for destructive purposes.

Through this metaphor, Levertov conveys the horror and irresponsibility of using art and intellect for violence. The image of the child also reinforces the idea that art, like a child, is meant to be nurtured and protected, not exposed to harm and destruction.

"Misnomer" is a compelling critique of the concept of "the art of war," arguing that true art is fundamentally life-affirming and nurturing, while war is inherently destructive and soul-draining. Levertov’s use of powerful imagery and historical reference underscores the profound difference between creation and destruction, highlighting the moral and ethical responsibility to use artistic and intellectual talents for the betterment of humanity rather than its devastation. Through her evocative language and poignant metaphors, Levertov calls for a recognition of the true nature of art and a rejection of its misuse in the service of war.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...