Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "The Mail," William Matthews captures the quiet, introspective moments of a woman named Sharon as she interacts with the mundane yet meaningful aspects of daily life. The poem begins with the arrival of the mail, delivered by a "star route man" driving a "pale purple jeep called a Bronco." The choice of the vehicle's name, not quite fitting into conventional categories like "Rat or a Toucan," subtly hints at a desire for distinction or uniqueness in an otherwise ordinary routine.

As the mailbox is filled, Sharon appears, muttering to herself. The content of her mutterings is left ambiguous, described as involving "the wind, water, the dead current of woodgrain in the headboard of the bed." This imagery suggests a stream of consciousness, where her thoughts flow through natural elements and mundane objects, blending the exterior world with her internal musings. The mention of the "dead current of woodgrain" evokes a sense of stillness or stasis, contrasting with the dynamic elements of wind and water.

Sharon retrieves the mail, which consists mostly of mundane communications, characterized as messages that say "Read Me / I'm Here and See You / Tomorrow." These "little ripples / of ink" highlight the simplicity and the ephemeral nature of everyday correspondence. Yet, these small communications stir something within her, prompting a desire for self-care, as indicated by her wish to brush her hair. The personification of her hair, which "would rise to the brush / like a happy pet" if it could, adds a tender, almost whimsical quality to the scene, suggesting a longing for gentle affection or routine comfort.

As she stares out the window, Sharon experiences a moment of possibility and introspection. The view outside symbolizes potential and escape; "She could go anywhere," yet there is a recognition of the continuous flow of life outside her window. The wind and light persist, indifferent to her contemplation, emphasizing the passage of time and the world beyond her immediate grasp.

The poem concludes with a poetic reflection on the act of writing, as Sharon contemplates penning a letter beginning with "Dear Sharon, Dear Hair, / Dear Snowgrains Swirled Off The Roof, / Dear Window Pulling Me There." This series of potential addresses shifts from the personal to the abstract, blending self-reflection with an observation of the natural world. The invocation of "Dear" in these potential letters personifies her surroundings and inner life, suggesting a desire to connect with both herself and the broader universe.

"The Mail" by William Matthews is a meditative piece that explores the small, often overlooked moments of daily life. Through the character of Sharon, the poem delves into themes of routine, introspection, and the quiet possibilities that lie within the mundane. Matthews uses subtle imagery and gentle personification to convey a sense of inner dialogue and a longing for connection, both with oneself and the world outside. The poem's understated tone and delicate observations invite readers to appreciate the quiet, reflective spaces in their own lives, where the ordinary can reveal unexpected depths of meaning and potential.

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