Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "The Age of AIDS," Edward Field explores themes of sexuality, intimacy, and aspiration amid the backdrop of the AIDS crisis. The poem introduces a vivid character, Jim, the postman, and through his interactions with the speaker, captures the complexities of desire and ambition during a tumultuous period.

The poem begins with the speaker recounting how Jim, the postman, was always interested in him sexually: "Our postman Jim was always after me to sleep with him / when I came down for the mail." Jim would "lower his voice thrillingly and say, Wanna do it?" Despite the straightforward proposition, the speaker is unable to refuse: "Uh-huh, I'd say, unable to turn him down."

Jim is described in almost mythic terms: "He was big / and handsome as a bronze god." This description elevates Jim to a figure of attraction and power, blending his physical appeal with an idealized image. However, the speaker's relationship with Jim extends beyond mere physical attraction.

The speaker enjoys practicing his Dutch on Jim, who is from Aruba, a Dutch territory: "He was from Aruba which belongs to Holland, and called Dutch the mother tongue." Jim is multilingual, speaking German from his time stationed in Germany and "all the Caribbean languages as well." This linguistic versatility adds another layer to Jim's character, emphasizing his adaptability and cultural knowledge.

Jim's competence as a postman is highlighted through his ability to manage the mailroom in a large building: "You have to be overqualified / to deal with a large complex like my building." Despite the complexities of his job, Jim "ran our mailroom like a corporate executive," and the speaker always encouraged him, believing Jim could "do anything."

Beyond his work as a postman, Jim worked part-time in a law office, where his boss wanted him to study law. However, Jim had his own ambitions. He frequently traveled to Brazil and had plans to retire there: "He was always going down to Brazil, and planned to retire there / when he got his pension from the post office." Jim's vision for his future was well thought out, as "he had it all worked out— / he'd already bought land."

Themes and Interpretation:

1. Sexuality and Desire: The poem captures the dynamics of sexual desire between the speaker and Jim. Jim's straightforward proposition ("Wanna do it?") and the speaker's reluctant acceptance ("Uh-huh, I'd say, unable to turn him down") reveal both the power dynamics and the urgency of desire during the AIDS crisis.

2. Ambition and Aspirations: Jim is portrayed as a multifaceted character with a clear vision for his future. Despite working as a postman and in a law office, his aspirations lie in Brazil, where he plans to retire. His linguistic skills and adaptability emphasize his resourcefulness and determination.

3. The AIDS Crisis Context: Although the poem doesn't explicitly mention AIDS in the content, the title "The Age of AIDS" situates the narrative within the context of the AIDS crisis. This period was marked by anxiety, loss, and heightened awareness of sexual behavior. The speaker's interactions with Jim are thus tinged with the awareness of risk and mortality.

4. Cultural Identity: Jim's multilingualism and multicultural background (Aruba, Germany, Caribbean languages) underscore the theme of cultural identity. Despite being a postman in New York, he remains connected to his roots and global aspirations.

Structure and Tone:

The poem is written in free verse, allowing for a conversational tone that reflects the intimacy and casual nature of the speaker's relationship with Jim. The narrative unfolds naturally, providing insight into Jim's character and aspirations through anecdotes and descriptions.

Conclusion:

"The Age of AIDS" by Edward Field is a nuanced exploration of intimacy, desire, and aspiration during a challenging period. Through the character of Jim, Field captures the complexities of living and loving in the shadow of the AIDS crisis, while also highlighting themes of ambition, identity, and resilience. The poem invites readers to consider the interplay between personal dreams and societal challenges, emphasizing the importance of hope and connection.

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