Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Topography," Sharon Olds uses the metaphor of geographical locations and time zones to explore the intimate connection between two lovers, suggesting a unity that transcends physical distances and individual identities. The poem intricately weaves together imagery of American geography and time, creating a tapestry of connection that symbolizes a deep and comprehensive merging of the lovers' lives.

The poem begins with the couple "flying across the country," an initial physical journey that transitions into a metaphorical exploration of their unity. Once in bed, they "laid our bodies delicately together, like maps laid / face to face, East to West." This simile sets the tone for the entire poem, emphasizing both the delicacy and precision with which their bodies and lives align. The use of geographical references, such as "my / San Francisco against your New York," "your / Fire Island against my Sonoma," and "my / New Orleans deep in your Texas," evokes a sense of a broad, encompassing connection that spans different regions, suggesting a union that is both comprehensive and intimate.

As the poem progresses, Olds intensifies this metaphorical union, describing "my Kansas / burning against your Kansas." This repetition of Kansas emphasizes a shared space or experience, highlighting a powerful connection that transcends individuality. The mention of different time zones—"your Eastern / Standard Time pressing into my / Pacific Time, my Mountain Time / beating against your Central Time"—further illustrates the merging of their separate lives into a harmonious whole. The time zones metaphorically represent different aspects of their personalities or life experiences, suggesting that despite these differences, they find a way to coexist and complement each other.

The imagery of celestial bodies, "your / sun rising swiftly from the right my / sun rising swiftly from the left," and "your / moon rising slowly from the left my / moon rising slowly from the right," signifies a perfect alignment. This alignment is not just of the lovers' bodies, but also of their emotional and spiritual beings. The synchronization of the sun and moon's movements symbolizes a deep harmony, where different elements come together in a unified dance. The culmination of "all four bodies of the sky / burn above us, sealing us together" suggests a consummation of their union, a binding that is complete and encompassing.

The poem concludes with a powerful declaration of unity: "all our cities twin cities, / all our states united, one / nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all." By invoking the language of the Pledge of Allegiance, Olds elevates the personal union to a universal level, suggesting that their intimate connection embodies an ideal of unity and equality. The use of this patriotic language not only emphasizes the strength and permanence of their bond but also suggests a broader, almost utopian vision of harmony and justice in relationships.

"Topography" is a celebration of intimate union and the profound connection that can exist between two people. Sharon Olds skillfully uses the metaphor of maps, geography, and celestial movements to convey the depth and complexity of this connection, suggesting that true intimacy involves a complete merging of lives and identities. The poem captures the beauty and intricacy of this union, presenting it as a microcosm of an ideal world where differences are harmonized and unity prevails. Through this exploration, Olds offers a powerful meditation on love, connection, and the transformative power of intimate relationships.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...