Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Homecoming" by Robert Lowell is a reflective poem that delves into themes of aging, memory, and the passage of time. The poem, written in free verse, captures moments from the poet's past, highlighting how time has transformed both people and experiences.

The opening line, "What was is...since 1930," sets the tone for the poem, suggesting a contemplation of the past and its enduring presence in the poet's memory. This line establishes a sense of continuity and nostalgia, anchoring the subsequent reflections in a specific historical context. The reference to "The boys in my old gang / are senior partners" indicates the passage of time and the inevitable progression from youthful camaraderie to established, perhaps mundane, adulthood. The image of these men "start[ing] up / bald like baby birds / to embrace retirement" evokes a sense of vulnerability and the cyclical nature of life, where the end of a career brings about a return to a state reminiscent of infancy.

Lowell then shifts to a more personal and intimate memory, recalling a moment at "the altar of surrender." This phrase suggests a significant turning point or a moment of deep emotional impact. The poet recalls meeting someone "in the hour of credulity," a time when youthful innocence and naivety were still intact. The lines "How your misfortune came our clearly / to us at twenty" reveal a shared understanding and empathy for the hardships faced by the individual in question. This sense of solidarity in the face of adversity underscores the emotional depth of their connection.

The poem then moves to a specific setting, "the gingerbread casino," where the poet and their companion experienced "innocent" nights. The reference to "Vesuvio martinis / with no vermouth but vodka / to sweeten the dry gin" paints a vivid picture of their youthful indulgence and experimentation. The choice of martinis named after Mount Vesuvius, known for its volcanic eruption, suggests a sense of excitement and unpredictability in their lives at that time.

The mood shifts abruptly with the mention of "the lash across my face / that night we adored." This sudden introduction of violence or emotional pain contrasts sharply with the earlier tone of innocence and revelry. The phrase "soon every night and all / when your sweet amorous / repetition changed" suggests a deterioration in their relationship, marked by a loss of the initial sweetness and a turn towards something more painful and repetitive.

In "Homecoming," Robert Lowell masterfully captures the bittersweet nature of memory, intertwining moments of joy and pain to reflect on the passage of time and the transformation of relationships. The poem's free verse structure allows for a fluid and organic exploration of these themes, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the poet's reflective journey. Through vivid imagery and poignant shifts in tone, Lowell conveys the complexities of human experience and the enduring impact of the past on the present.

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