Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Tess Gallagher’s poem “As If He Were Free” is a rich tapestry of cultural references, personal reminiscences, and profound reflections on freedom, suffering, and the human condition. The poem navigates through various landscapes—physical, emotional, and intellectual—while maintaining an intimate and contemplative tone. Its intricate layering of themes and imagery invites a detailed analysis.

The poem begins with a description of Shahid, who is characterized by his "beautifully brown" complexion, merging into "Krishna-blue" eyes. This imagery not only highlights Shahid’s physical appearance but also imbues him with a spiritual and mythical quality, associating him with the Hindu deity Krishna. This cultural fusion sets the stage for the poem’s exploration of identity and belonging.

The mention of eating “fiery Brahman lamb” without garlic or onions suggests a specific dietary practice rooted in Hindu tradition, underscoring the poem's engagement with cultural specificity. The act of sharing a meal and leaning on cushions evokes a sense of camaraderie and comfort, which contrasts with the underlying threats that are momentarily absent. This temporary respite allows for a “little silliness with friends,” which is described as a form of “stamina” and “tenacity of the right benevolence.” These lines suggest that finding joy and connection in small moments is a vital form of resistance and resilience.

The poem then shifts to a more somber tone with the mention of Salman, likely referring to Salman Rushdie, whose life was marked by the infamous fatwa issued against him. This reference situates the poem within a larger context of political and religious conflict, highlighting the precariousness of freedom. The speaker’s Kashmiri friend prepares to deliver a paper in the “language of reason” to a Western audience, emphasizing the tension between different cultural perspectives and the challenges of communicating across these divides.

Gallagher delves into the complexities of freedom, suggesting that it is always accompanied by its “shadow-self of suffering.” The mention of Nelson Mandela reinforces this idea, portraying freedom as a hard-won and often delayed achievement. The metaphor of freedom attracting “the cage” and “hindrance” underscores the paradoxical nature of liberation—it is both sought after and perpetually constrained.

The poem’s reflection on historical events, such as the riots in Bombay in 1921 and the burning of the Star of David in Mississippi in 1967, links personal and collective memories of violence and oppression. These incidents serve as reminders of the persistent struggle for freedom and justice across different times and places.

In the poem’s final stanzas, Gallagher evokes a sense of transcendence and continuity through the imagery of doves and the raga sung by Shahid. The doves, symbolizing peace and purity, are juxtaposed with the brutalities described earlier. The raga, with its “chromatically pure and lonely” notes, represents a form of artistic and spiritual expression that transcends the limitations of language and reason.

Gallagher’s use of language is both lyrical and precise, blending narrative and meditative elements to create a deeply layered and evocative poem. The structure of the poem, with its seamless transitions between different scenes and themes, mirrors the fluidity of memory and thought. The style is reflective and conversational, inviting readers to engage with the poem on both an intellectual and emotional level.

“As If He Were Free” is a powerful exploration of the interplay between freedom and suffering, individual and collective memory, and the enduring human spirit. Gallagher’s ability to weave together diverse cultural references and personal experiences creates a rich and multifaceted narrative that resonates with universal themes of resilience and hope.

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