Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In the poem "Garbo," Edward Field crafts an evocative portrait of the iconic actress Greta Garbo, using her persona to explore themes of authenticity, vulnerability, and the allure of solitude. By focusing on Garbo's distinctive characteristics and enigmatic personality, Field contrasts her with the often superficial nature of modern society, ultimately inviting readers to reflect on their own willingness to embrace vulnerability.

The poem begins with a striking observation: "Her eyes never blink— / higher beings do not blink." This line immediately places Garbo in a realm above ordinary mortals, associating her with divinity or an otherworldly presence. Field likens her to "people in remote lands / who stare at you from the fields," connecting her gaze to innocence and purity. This unblinking gaze symbolizes a kind of emotional fortitude: "If blinking is a kind of flinching, / she never flinches."

Field goes on to describe Garbo's acting style, emphasizing her authenticity: "She doesn’t adopt any facial expression— / it’s her feelings she shows / or none at all." By eschewing facial expressions and mannerisms, Garbo avoids the artifice that often characterizes public personas: "Nor does she put on / mannerisms like we do, meaning / we’re desperate for attention." Her rejection of superficiality makes her "the only one we believe" when she says she wants to be alone.

The poem acknowledges that Garbo's beauty arises not from "devices" but from her natural lack of them: "It’s no devices then that make her beautiful / but the lack of them." However, Field also recognizes that her grace is tinged with awkwardness and difficulty: "Still, the awkwardness / of her grace shows that being graceful / is not an easy victory." This "permanent mournfulness in the mouth / and the testimony of those eyes" hint at a deeper sorrow that she carries within, an emotional burden visible in her gaze.

Field invites readers to consider Garbo's commitment to authenticity: "Can’t we make the same commitment, / risk shedding evasions, devices, defenses / —in short, our faces— / and look unblinking at each other, vulnerable / to what in our hearts we long for?" The rhetorical question challenges readers to embrace vulnerability and shed the superficial masks they often wear. However, the poet also acknowledges the fear associated with this risk, as "for mere mortals / the price is too great."

The poem concludes with a recognition that Garbo herself could not choose any other path: "though for herself / she could not, would not, choose another fate." Her solitude and authenticity, while isolating, are intrinsic to her identity.

Structurally, the poem is written in free verse, which allows Field to adopt a conversational tone and explore Garbo’s persona with fluidity. The absence of strict meter or rhyme mirrors the poem’s focus on authenticity and natural expression. The language is straightforward yet evocative, with vivid imagery that brings Garbo's mystique to life.

Overall, "Garbo" by Edward Field is a reflective and thought-provoking tribute to Greta Garbo's enigmatic persona. Through his exploration of her unblinking gaze, mournful grace, and commitment to solitude, Field invites readers to reflect on their own vulnerability and willingness to embrace authenticity. The poem serves as a celebration of Garbo's unique identity while also acknowledging the challenges that come with shedding the "evasive devices" that society often imposes.

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