Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov’s poem "Somebody Trying" captures the complexity of human nature and the struggle to reconcile personal flaws with artistic and moral contributions. Through the lens of Tolstoy’s life and character, Levertov explores themes of hypocrisy, redemption, and the difficult journey of being human.

The poem opens with an emotionally charged scene: "‘That creep Tolstoy,’ she sobbed. / ‘He... He... couldn’t even...’ / Something about his brother dying." This initial outburst sets the tone of frustration and disappointment directed towards Tolstoy, hinting at his perceived failures and personal shortcomings. The ellipses convey the speaker’s difficulty in articulating the specific grievances, suggesting that Tolstoy’s failings are numerous and complex.

Levertov then shifts focus to the historical and social context of Tolstoy’s life: "The serfs’ punishments / have not ceased to suppurate on their backs. / Woodlots. People. Someone crying." These lines evoke the enduring suffering of the serfs, juxtaposed with the natural imagery of "woodlots" and the human element of "someone crying." The use of "suppurate" implies ongoing pain and unresolved issues, emphasizing the harsh realities of the time.

The poem portrays Tolstoy’s inner turmoil: "under the yellow / autumn birchgrove drove him / wild: A new set of resolves." This moment of emotional intensity under the birch trees sparks a renewal of purpose in Tolstoy, highlighting his continuous struggle to align his actions with his ideals. The vivid imagery of the birchgrove adds a layer of natural beauty and introspection to this pivotal moment.

Levertov addresses Tolstoy’s vices and contradictions: "When gambling, that almost obsolete fever, / or three days with the gypsies / sparked him into pure ego, he could, / just the same, write home, ‘Sell them.’" These lines reveal Tolstoy’s susceptibility to self-indulgence and moral lapses, contrasting sharply with his lofty principles. The phrase "pure ego" underscores the selfishness that occasionally governed his actions.

Despite his flaws, Tolstoy’s enduring commitment to his work is acknowledged: "‘Still,’ (someone who loved her said, / cold and firm while she dissolved, / hypocrite, in self disgust, lectrice) / ‘Still, he kept on. He wrote / all that he wrote; and seems to have understood / better than most of us." The voice of reason here recognizes Tolstoy’s perseverance and his profound insights into the human condition. The term "lectrice" (female reader) points to a woman who, despite her criticism, acknowledges Tolstoy’s contributions to literature and thought.

Levertov reflects on the difficulty of being human: "to be human isn’t easy. It’s not / easy to be a serf or a master and learn / that art. It takes nerve." This universal truth applies to both Tolstoy and the serfs, emphasizing the inherent challenges of life regardless of social status. The poem acknowledges that learning the "art" of being human requires resilience and strength.

The final lines capture the ambivalence towards Tolstoy: "Bastard. Fink. / Yet the grief / trudging behind his funeral, he earned." These harsh epithets reflect the speaker’s anger and disillusionment, but they are tempered by the recognition of the genuine mourning at Tolstoy’s funeral. This suggests that, despite his flaws, Tolstoy earned a place of respect and sorrow in the hearts of many.

"Somebody Trying" is a nuanced exploration of Tolstoy’s life, capturing the tension between his personal failings and his significant contributions to literature and human understanding. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful reflection, Levertov emphasizes the complexity of human nature and the ongoing struggle to reconcile our actions with our ideals. The poem invites readers to consider the inherent difficulties of being human and the importance of perseverance and self-awareness in the face of these challenges.

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