Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Final Note to Clark" by Lucille Clifton is a poignant and reflective poem that uses the metaphor of comic book characters to explore themes of expectation, identity, and the realization of human limitations. By addressing Clark Kent, the alter ego of Superman, Clifton delves into the contrast between the fantastical and the mundane, highlighting the discrepancy between imagined powers and real human capabilities. The poem is a meditation on the disillusionment that comes with recognizing the limits of what we and those we admire can achieve, tempered by an acceptance of our shared humanity.

The opening lines, "they had it wrong, / the old comics. / you are only clark kent / after all," immediately challenge the mythic narratives of comic book heroes, suggesting that even those we perceive as capable of extraordinary feats are, in reality, just ordinary people. The reference to "the old comics" and the specific naming of Clark Kent evokes a sense of nostalgia and the universal longing for heroes who can "fix it," whatever "it" may represent in the context of life's challenges.

Clifton's use of the phrase "mild mannered mister" reinforces the image of Clark Kent as the quintessential average person, devoid of the superhuman qualities attributed to his alter ego, Superman. This acknowledgment serves as a turning point in the speaker's understanding, marking a shift from fantasy to reality, from projection to acceptance.

The speaker reflects on her own actions and beliefs, "taking chances, / dancing on the edge of words, / pointing out the bad guys," as if she were a counterpart to Superman, perhaps imagining herself in the role of Wonder Woman. This reveals a desire to live in a world where clear distinctions between good and evil exist and where heroic intervention can right the wrongs. Yet, the realization that Clark Kent "could not see the beauty in me" with "x-ray vision" metaphorically speaks to the limitations of understanding and connection between people, despite the longing for deeper recognition and validation.

Clifton's rhetorical questions, "what did i expect? what / did i hope for?" encapsulate the essence of the poem—a reflection on the gap between our dreams and the reality of human relationships and capabilities. The poem concludes with a powerful recognition of identity and mutual understanding: "we are who we are, / two faithful readers, / not wonder woman and not superman." This acceptance of ordinary humanity, with its inherent limitations and lack of superpowers, emphasizes the value of genuine connection over fantastical expectations.

"Final Note to Clark" is a tender, introspective piece that explores the complexities of admiration, expectation, and the acceptance of our own and others' limitations. Lucille Clifton masterfully employs the metaphor of comic book heroes to address deeper existential questions, inviting readers to reflect on the nature of heroism, the beauty of human imperfection, and the importance of embracing reality with grace and humility.

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