Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

James Galvin's "Practice" is a contemplative and richly descriptive poem that explores themes of human interaction, the natural world, and the innocence of practice versus performance. The poem opens with the world being "carefully packed / in time," suggesting a sense of deliberate creation and the potential for discovery and revelation. This careful packaging, likened to "God's parachute," sets up a contrast between the divine and the human propensity to disrupt and complicate.

The reference to "booby-trapping" the world and the characterization of God from the Old Testament as a "terrorist" who has now become a "generalization" reflect a critical view of how humanity has altered its perception of the divine and the natural world. This change hints at a loss of the sacred and the emergence of self-inflicted fears, such as the harm we cause to the ozone layer.

Despite these fears, the speaker finds solace in the routine of walking home "through writhing spring," where "leafy things and flowers" flourish, seemingly indifferent to human anxieties. The imagery of spring in full bloom symbolizes renewal and the persistent beauty of nature, which continues to thrive "ignoring fear."

The poem takes a personal turn as the speaker encounters a girl by the gymnasium, "in a green leotard with long sleeves." This girl, described as a dancer, embodies a sense of physical confidence and grace, as she practices her movements. Her practice is not a performance but an intimate and solitary act of getting the dance right. The speaker is deeply moved by her unselfconscious engagement with her body and the dance, recognizing a purity in her practice that transcends mere desire.

The speaker's observation that "she didn't regret / her body" highlights a contrast with common insecurities and societal pressures. The dancer's acceptance and harmony with her physical form make her practice more poignant and beautiful. The act of "spinning herself around" without music emphasizes the dancer's focus on perfecting her craft rather than performing for others.

The speaker's own reaction is a mix of desire and respect. While he admits to wanting her, he chooses to "stand quietly" and not interrupt her practice. This decision reflects an understanding of the importance of her solitude and the sacredness of her practice. The risk of "frightening her / with speech" underscores the delicacy of the moment and the potential intrusion of his presence.

In summary, "Practice" by James Galvin is a thoughtful meditation on the beauty of solitary practice, the renewal found in nature, and the respectful distance maintained in observing another's intimate engagement with their craft. Through vivid imagery and introspective narrative, Galvin explores the intersection of the mundane and the profound, highlighting how moments of genuine practice and natural beauty can inspire and move us. The poem invites readers to appreciate the quiet, often unnoticed acts of dedication and the natural world's persistent beauty amidst human fears and complications.

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