Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Diary Entry" by John Ciardi is a wry and contemplative poem that delves into the themes of human aspiration, the unpredictable nature of life, and the often disproportionate consequences of our desires. Through a metaphorical narrative involving a transaction at a "God store," Ciardi explores the relationship between humanity and the divine, or fate, with a blend of humor and philosophical insight.

The opening lines, "I was in a mood for disaster / but couldn’t afford much," immediately establish a tone of ironic detachment, juxtaposing the speaker's grandiose longing for catastrophe with a stark acknowledgment of his limitations. This contrast sets the stage for a meditation on the nature of desire and the constraints within which we operate, suggesting that even our most dramatic inclinations are bound by the practicalities of our circumstances.

The concept of the "God store" is a compelling vehicle for exploring the commodification of spiritual or existential experiences, where even the most profound aspects of existence are subject to the mechanics of commerce and negotiation. The speaker's decision to purchase "an ounce of avalanche" with his "last three worn perversos" reflects a conscious choice to engage with chaos, to invoke a change or challenge of monumental scale, albeit within his limited means.

However, the transaction does not go as expected. The speaker receives only "one grain of sand," a seemingly insignificant item, yet it is imbued with enough power to cause discomfort when "He blew in my eye." This act, which could be interpreted as both playful and punitive, underscores the poem's exploration of the unintended consequences of our desires. The speaker seeks a disaster of his choosing but is instead reminded of his vulnerability to smaller, unpredictable forces.

The closing lines offer a moment of reflection and a lesson learned: "A rule of thumb: / all else being equal, / I’ll not be caught, not soon again, / trying to do business on His scale." This realization speaks to the folly of attempting to control or bargain with forces beyond our understanding or capacity. The speaker acknowledges the futility of trying to measure one's desires and actions against the vast, inscrutable scale of the divine or fate.

"Diary Entry" is characterized by Ciardi's signature blend of wit and wisdom, inviting readers to ponder the complexities of human ambition, the nature of our interactions with the divine or the forces of fate, and the humility required to navigate the unpredictable terrain of existence. The poem serves as a cautionary tale about the limits of human agency and the need to recognize and respect the balance between our aspirations and our ability to contend with their outcomes.

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