Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov’s poem "Looking-Glass" delves into the complex experience of self-reflection, both literally and metaphorically. Through concise and evocative imagery, the poem explores themes of identity, self-perception, and the underlying tensions that come with introspection.

The poem opens with a simple but striking action: "I slide my face along to the mirror sideways, to see that side-smile, a pale look, tired and sly." This movement towards the mirror, not head-on but from the side, suggests an attempt to catch a glimpse of oneself from a different perspective. The "side-smile" described as "pale, tired and sly" conveys a sense of weariness and subtle cunning. The use of "pale" and "tired" implies fatigue and perhaps a loss of vitality, while "sly" introduces an element of cunning or hidden knowledge.

The question "Hey, / who is glancing there?" introduces a moment of self-awareness and uncertainty. This question indicates a disconnect between the observer and the reflection, as if the speaker is momentarily unsure of their own identity. The casual "Hey" contrasts with the deeper existential query, adding a layer of immediacy and informality to the introspection.

Levertov then introduces the concept of the "shadow-me," a version of the self seen in the mirror: "Shadow-me, not with malice but mercurially shot with foreknowledge of dread and sweat." This "shadow-me" is not malevolent, but it is complex and unpredictable, "mercurially shot" with emotions and anticipations that are difficult to pin down. The reference to "foreknowledge of dread and sweat" suggests an awareness of future anxieties and struggles, adding a sense of foreboding to the reflection.

The poem's imagery of "dread and sweat" encapsulates the physical and emotional responses to this self-reflection. "Dread" implies a looming sense of fear or anxiety, while "sweat" signifies the physical manifestation of this tension. Together, these images create a vivid picture of the internal landscape revealed through the act of looking in the mirror.

Levertov's use of free verse allows for a fluid and natural expression of these complex feelings. The lack of strict rhyme or meter reflects the unpredictability and mercurial nature of the emotions being explored. The poem's brevity and precise language enhance its impact, capturing a fleeting but intense moment of self-scrutiny.

"Looking-Glass" is a poignant exploration of the act of self-reflection and the often unsettling realizations that can accompany it. Through her vivid and economical use of imagery, Levertov conveys the multifaceted nature of identity and the inherent tensions in perceiving oneself. The poem invites readers to consider their own moments of introspection and the complex, sometimes contradictory selves they encounter in the mirror.

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