Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov’s poem "Invocation" captures the poignant moment of leaving a beloved home, invoking the protective spirits, the Lares, to safeguard its essence and memories. Through rich imagery and an undercurrent of deep emotional connection, Levertov explores themes of separation, memory, and hope for return.

The poem begins with a depiction of the house in a state of silence and anticipation: "Silent, about-to-be-parted-from house." This opening line sets a tone of quiet sadness and foreboding, suggesting the emotional weight of leaving behind a cherished place. The house itself seems to react to the imminent departure, with "Wood creaking, trying to sigh, impatient." This personification of the house as a living entity imbues it with a sense of consciousness and emotional response, reinforcing the bond between the inhabitants and their home.

Levertov introduces the sounds within the house, like the "Clicking of squirrel-teeth in the attic," which adds to the atmosphere of a space still alive with small, familiar noises. These details emphasize the house's ongoing life, even as its human occupants prepare to leave. The mention of "Denuded beds, couches stripped of serapes" paints a picture of a home being systematically dismantled, its warmth and comfort removed in preparation for departure.

The imagery then shifts to the external threat of winter: "Deep snow shall block all entrances and oppress the roof and darken the windows." This foreboding vision of the house under siege by snow symbolizes the isolation and potential vulnerability of the home in the absence of its inhabitants. The snow is not just a physical barrier but also a metaphor for the emotional chill and darkness that accompanies separation.

The plea to the Lares, the household deities of ancient Roman religion, is a central element of the poem: "O Lares, don't leave." This invocation is a desperate appeal for protection and continuity. The Lares are called upon to stay and watch over the house, preserving its essence and memories until the occupants can return.

Levertov employs powerful personification again with the image of the house: "The house yawns like a bear." This simile suggests the house as a dormant, powerful creature, hibernating and awaiting the return of its family. The comparison to a bear also conveys a sense of strength and endurance, implying that the house will endure the separation and harsh winter, much like a bear surviving its hibernation.

The final lines of the poem are a heartfelt request: "Guard its profound dreams for us, that it return to us when we return." Here, the "profound dreams" of the house are the memories, experiences, and emotional connections that it holds. The speaker asks the Lares to protect these intangible yet vital aspects of the home, ensuring that it remains a place of comfort and familiarity when they come back.

Levertov’s free verse structure allows for a natural, flowing expression of these sentiments. The poem’s rhythm and pacing reflect the contemplative and somber mood, while the lack of strict form mirrors the fluid and unpredictable nature of leaving and returning.

"Invocation" is a deeply emotional and evocative poem that captures the essence of leaving a beloved home. Through rich imagery and personification, Levertov conveys the profound connection between people and their living spaces, highlighting the house as a repository of memories and a symbol of stability and comfort. The invocation to the Lares serves as a plea for protection and continuity, emphasizing the hope that, despite physical separation, the home will remain a place of warmth and safety, ready to welcome its inhabitants back. The poem resonates with anyone who has experienced the bittersweet process of leaving and the enduring hope of return.

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