Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Aubade of the Singer and Saboteur, Marie Triste" is a poem by Norman Dubie, first published in his collection "The Clouds of Magellan" in 1991. The poem is an aubade, a genre of poetry traditionally associated with the morning, which emphasizes the passing of time and the inevitability of change.

Explanation:

The poem is a portrait of Marie Triste, a fictional character who is both a singer and a saboteur . The speaker describes Marie's life, both as a performer and as a subversive force working against oppressive regimes. The poem also touches on the themes of revolution, oppression, and the power of art. She is both a political figure and an artist, using her voice as a tool for resistance. The poem also highlights the power of art to inspire and motivate people, even in the face of overwhelming oppression.

Dubie's poem emphasizes the importance of standing up against injustice, even when the odds seem insurmountable. He also acknowledges the difficulties and risks of such resistance, as Triste must constantly be on the run and avoid capture by the government. The poem suggests that the struggle for freedom and justice is ongoing and requires persistence and bravery.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: Free verse
• Imagery: The poem is filled with vivid, sensory imagery, from the "blood oranges and stringed instruments" of Marie's performances to the "smoke, gunpowder, and broken glass" of her sabotage operations.
• Repetition: The refrain "That is all I will say" appears several times throughout the poem, emphasizing the secrecy and mystery surrounding Marie's actions.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is both celebratory and ominous, capturing the dual nature of Marie's character as both an artist and a saboteur.

Conclusion:

"Aubade of the Singer and Saboteur, Marie Triste" is a powerful and evocative poem that explores the intersection of art and politics through the character of Marie Triste. Dubie's use of vivid imagery and repetition create a haunting portrait of a woman who uses her talents to fight against oppression, while also highlighting the dangerous and mysterious nature of her work. Dubie's poem emphasizes the importance of standing up against injustice, even when the odds seem insurmountable. He also acknowledges the difficulties and risks of such resistance, as Triste must constantly be on the run and avoid capture by the government. The poem suggests that the struggle for freedom and justice is ongoing and requires persistence and bravery.

Poem Snippet:

"That is all I will say. That she sang,

but not for the president who had stolen

the poppy fields. That she was also

involved in sabotage, I will say no more."

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