Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"It Was a Dream" by Lucille Clifton is a vivid and introspective poem that delves into the realm of self-reflection and accountability. Through the dreamlike encounter with her "greater self," the speaker is confronted with the essence of her life’s choices and actions. The poem navigates the complex emotions of regret, self-reckoning, and the intense desire for self-improvement. Clifton uses powerful imagery and emotion to illustrate the internal conflict between the person the speaker has become and the person she aspires to be.

The opening lines introduce the confrontation with the "greater self," a symbolic representation of the speaker's ideal or potential self. This figure is both part of the speaker and apart from her, embodying the aspirations, values, and judgments that the speaker has failed to live up to. The "greater self" rising up "accusing me of my life" suggests a moment of existential crisis, where the speaker is forced to face the reality of her actions and their divergence from her inner moral compass.

The "extra finger / whirling in a gyre of rage" is a striking image that enhances the supernatural and judgmental aspects of the confrontation. The extra finger could symbolize the things left undone or the paths not taken, while its motion suggests a relentless, inescapable judgment. The use of "gyre" evokes a sense of chaos and destruction, reflecting the turmoil within the speaker's conscience.

The speaker's plea, "what, / i pleaded with her, could i do, / oh what could i have done?" encapsulates the feelings of helplessness and regret. It's a recognition of past failures and the yearning for guidance on how to rectify or come to terms with them. The speaker is searching for redemption or absolution, yet is met with a challenge to confront the reality of her choices.

The "greater self's" response, communicated through her "wild hair" and "wild eyes," is both primal and profound. The repetition of "This. This. This." serves as a call to action, urging the speaker to recognize the moments of choice, the opportunities for change, and the potential for growth that exist within every day. It's a powerful reminder that transformation and redemption are always possible, but they require acknowledgment and effort.

"It Was a Dream" is a compelling exploration of the self that dwells within the realm of the psychological and the spiritual. Lucille Clifton masterfully captures the tension between who we are and who we wish to be, weaving a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own lives, the choices they've made, and the potential they hold within themselves for change and growth. Through this introspective journey, Clifton offers a message of hope and empowerment, reminding us that it's never too late to strive for our "greater self."

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