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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
"The Horses at the Tank" by Robert Bly is a succinct yet profoundly symbolic poem that captures the essence of love's impact on the spiritual realm. Through a single evocative image, Bly conveys the interconnectedness of human emotion and the nourishment of the soul, illustrating the depth of his understanding of the mystical aspects of life and love. This poem, emblematic of Bly's reputation as a "meditative mystic," offers a window into the perennial wisdom that underlies our existence, demonstrating his ability to touch upon universal truths with brevity and beauty. At the heart of the poem is the metaphor of a water tank where "the spirit horses drink," which is filled by the breaths of those who love. This imagery is rich in its simplicity, suggesting that love, in its most genuine form, transcends the physical and becomes a source of sustenance for the spiritual. The "spirit horses" can be interpreted as symbols of the soul's vitality and freedom, thriving on the energy and life force generated by love. Bly's choice to focus on the act of breathing—the most fundamental expression of life—highlights the unconscious, continuous contribution that love makes to the spiritual well-being of the universe. Bly's poetic philosophy here reflects a deep understanding of the nature of reality, where the material and spiritual are intricately linked. The poem suggests that love is not just an emotional or psychological state but a powerful force that nourishes and sustains the unseen aspects of our existence. This perspective aligns with various mystical traditions that view love as a central principle of the cosmos, capable of transforming both the lover and the beloved. In "The Horses at the Tank," Bly distills complex metaphysical concepts into a simple, accessible image, demonstrating his skill as a poet and his insight as a mystic. The poem invites readers to contemplate the unseen effects of their emotions and relationships, encouraging a deeper appreciation for the mysterious ways in which love operates within the world. Through this brief yet impactful work, Robert Bly continues to engage readers with his characteristic blend of poetic elegance and philosophical depth. "The Horses at the Tank" stands as a testament to Bly's ability to convey profound spiritual insights through the power of poetry, reaffirming his place as a cherished voice in American literature and a guide to the exploration of the inner dimensions of life. POEM TEXT: https://winnpost.org/2017/08/04/spirit-horses/
| Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...NEW SEASON by MICHAEL S. HARPER THE INVENTION OF LOVE by MATTHEA HARVEY TWO VIEWS OF BUSON by ROBERT HASS A LOVE FOR FOUR VOICES: HOMAGE TO FRANZ JOSEPH HAYDN by ANTHONY HECHT AN OFFERING FOR PATRICIA by ANTHONY HECHT LATE AFTERNOON: THE ONSLAUGHT OF LOVE by ANTHONY HECHT |
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