Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Promiscuous," William Matthews explores the evolution of language and its socio-cultural implications, particularly focusing on the word "promiscuous." The poem begins with a reflection on the word's original meaning as found in dictionaries: "Mixes easily," indicating a straightforward translation from Latin and its application by chemists to describe the amiability of matter. This initial definition presents a neutral, even positive, connotation, suggesting a certain ease or flexibility.

However, Matthews quickly shifts to how the meaning of "promiscuous" has evolved over time, particularly highlighting the definition from the *Random House Dictionary* in 1980, which prioritizes "characterized / by frequent and indiscriminate / changes of one's sexual partners." This modern interpretation starkly contrasts with the earlier, more benign usage, reflecting societal changes and moral judgments.

The poet delves into the derogatory implications of the term, noting how it has become synonymous with "slut," a word loaded with blame and stigma. Matthews observes how "slut" was once applied equally to both men and women who were perceived as morally lax or sexually indiscriminate. The alliterative string of verbs—"slurred, / slavered, slobbered, / slumped, slept or lapsed, slunk or relapsed"—emphasizes the negative and often exaggerated judgments cast upon individuals labeled as such. The word's usage demonstrates the social inclination to shame, capturing a collective disdain for those who do not conform to sexual norms.

The poem then highlights the gendered double standard that developed, where the term "slut" became predominantly associated with women, while men who engaged in similar behaviors were often celebrated as "ladies' men." This contrast underscores a societal hypocrisy, where a "much-bedded male" escapes the derogatory label and instead is praised for his conquests. Matthews suggests a pervasive cultural bias embedded within the language, exposing the underlying sexism in these distinctions.

Matthews further critiques language's role in perpetuating these biases by examining the word "depression." Originally used in a scientific context to denote the opposite of elevation or a dip below the horizon, "depression" has come to encompass psychological and emotional states. This shift reflects how language evolves to encompass broader meanings, often carrying with it historical and cultural baggage. The poet underscores the idea that language, like a "furious river," carries "all we thought we'd shucked off," including prejudices and societal norms.

The poem's conclusion returns to the word "promiscuous," encapsulating the chaotic and multifaceted nature of language and human experience. Matthews describes language as "pell-mell, head over heels, snickers and grief, / love notes and libel, fire and ice," portraying it as a swirling mix of contradictory elements. This final depiction of language as inherently "promiscuous" suggests that, like the individuals the term describes, language itself is varied, unpredictable, and resistant to simple categorization.

"Promiscuous" is a meditation on the power of language to shape and reflect societal attitudes. Matthews uses the evolution of specific words to highlight how language can simultaneously reveal and perpetuate cultural biases, particularly concerning gender and morality. The poem challenges the reader to consider how words carry histories of judgment and how they continue to influence perceptions and behaviors. Through its exploration of etymology and cultural context, "Promiscuous" reveals the complexities and contradictions inherent in the words we use, urging a more nuanced understanding of both language and the human condition.

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