Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Edward Field’s poem "Come Back, Miss Moffo, We Love You" is a tribute to the opera singer Anna Moffo, celebrated for her unique voice and artistic spirit. With wit and warmth, Field reflects on Moffo’s career, her European acclaim, and the challenges she faced in her native America. Through personal and cultural anecdotes, he explores themes of artistic identity, cultural prejudice, and the triumph of individuality.

The poem opens with Field addressing Anna Moffo directly, acknowledging the difficulties she experienced performing in America: “I don't blame you for only singing in Europe / the way the Times' critic slam you / every time you sing here.” This opening reveals the poet’s sympathy for Moffo and introduces the critical reception she faced at home. Her reception in Europe, however, contrasts starkly with her treatment in America: “Far better over there where they love you / for your mature voice, / the deep-breasted tones of woman.” In Europe, Moffo is admired for the very qualities that critics in America dismiss.

Field’s admiration for Moffo’s mature, “deep-breasted” voice leads to a vivid comparison between her and other sopranos: “Queen of Operetta, / if not Grand Opera anymore, / you are still to most sopranos / what the vaginal orgasm is / to the clitoral.” He contrasts the superficial brilliance of other sopranos with Moffo’s deeper vocal resonance: “your voice burbles up thrillingly / from deep inside your vagina, / moist, / rich, / and odorous.” This metaphorical description celebrates the earthy, sensuous quality of Moffo’s singing and emphasizes the naturalness and authenticity that set her apart.

Field then delves into Moffo’s childhood, drawing parallels to his own experiences growing up: “Your childhood near Scranton / couldn't have been much fun, / as the dark little hairy girl in the class / with overdeveloped breasts for her age / and the curse of an operatic voice.” He imagines the difficulties she must have faced, being different in an environment that did not appreciate her unique talents. Field likens Moffo’s experience to his own as “the puny dark boy / who carried to school a cello big as me.” Both were marked as outsiders due to their artistic inclinations and ethnic backgrounds.

The assembly performance of “Ciribiribin” serves as a poignant anecdote that highlights the ridicule and alienation faced by those who do not conform: “I can see you standing up in the assembly / to sing ‘Ciribiribin,’ / while the tough kids / jacked off in the back row, grinning.” This crude response from the audience reflects the intolerance and cruelty often faced by those who dare to express their individuality.

Field then expands on the broader social prejudices that marked Moffo’s upbringing: “Where I grew up, Italians were only slightly / less despised than Jews. / But to be anything ethnic / was humiliating.” These lines expose the pervasive xenophobia of the era and the harsh judgments placed on girls who did not conform to societal norms: “They had to be sluts.” Despite these challenges, Moffo transcended her small-town origins, a feat that Field attributes to a “miracle.”

The poem closes with an emphatic expression of love and admiration: “ANNA MOFFO, / WE LOVE YOU!” The use of all caps conveys a celebratory tone and reinforces the sincerity of the tribute.

Structurally, the poem is written in free verse, allowing Field to adopt a conversational and intimate tone. The narrative flows naturally as Field moves between personal anecdote, cultural commentary, and direct address. His use of vivid metaphors and striking imagery brings Moffo’s persona to life and enhances the emotional impact of the poem.

In summary, “Come Back, Miss Moffo, We Love You” is a heartfelt homage to Anna Moffo’s artistry and spirit. Edward Field skillfully blends humor, nostalgia, and cultural critique to craft a poem that celebrates individuality and resilience in the face of prejudice. By drawing parallels between his own childhood experiences and Moffo’s, he creates a personal connection that adds depth to the tribute, inviting readers to reflect on the transformative power of art and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness.

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