Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Naomi Watches as Ruth Sleeps" by Lucille Clifton offers a poignant and intimate glimpse into the biblical story of Naomi and Ruth, reimagining it with a focus on Naomi's internal struggles and emotions. The poem captures a moment of reflection, solitude, and complex emotional interplay between the desire for personal grief and the responsibilities of love and guidance. Clifton's exploration of Naomi's character delves into themes of loss, loyalty, and the search for peace amidst the profound grief of losing one's family.

The poem begins with Naomi's observation of Ruth's closeness, "she clings to me / like a shadow," indicating Ruth's unwavering loyalty and dedication. This imagery of a shadow suggests Ruth's presence is both a comfort and a burden, a constant reminder of Naomi's loss and her ongoing duty to the daughter-in-law who refuses to leave her side. Despite the deep bond that this closeness signifies, Naomi expresses a longing for solitude, "when all that i wish / is to sit alone," highlighting her desire to mourn the loss of her husband and sons privately and without the weight of additional responsibilities.

Naomi's contemplation further reveals Ruth's promise "to follow me, / to become me / if i allow it." This promise reflects Ruth's commitment not only to stay with Naomi but also to adopt her identity, culture, and God as her own. This deep act of loyalty and love is acknowledged by Naomi, yet it also presents a challenge to her desire for isolation and personal grieving. The complexity of Naomi's feelings is palpable, torn between appreciating Ruth's loyalty and yearning for a space to process her grief independently.

As Naomi considers leading Ruth "to Boaz country," she contemplates a future where Ruth may find a new life and security. The mention of Boaz hints at hope and redemption, not just for Ruth but indirectly for Naomi as well. By contemplating Ruth's potential place among "his concubines," Naomi is strategizing for Ruth's welfare, ensuring her protection and provision in a patriarchal society. However, this line also underscores the limited options available to women during biblical times, where their well-being often depended on the favor of men.

The poem concludes with Naomi's wish, "jehovah willing / i can grieve in peace." This closing line encapsulates Naomi's deep yearning for personal peace and the space to mourn her losses. It reflects a hope that, with Ruth's future potentially secured through Boaz, Naomi might finally find the solitude she craves for her grief. This line underscores the theme of seeking peace amidst the turbulence of loss and change, a universal quest that transcends time and narrative.

"Naomi Watches as Ruth Sleeps" is a testament to Lucille Clifton's ability to breathe new life into ancient stories, illuminating the inner lives of her characters with sensitivity and depth. Through this poem, Clifton explores the nuances of human emotion, the complexity of relationships forged in adversity, and the enduring search for peace in the aftermath of loss. By focusing on Naomi's perspective, Clifton provides a nuanced exploration of the themes of loyalty, loss, and the longing for personal peace, inviting readers to ponder the intricate dynamics of love and grief in the context of enduring biblical narratives.

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