Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Allen Ginsberg's poem "After the Party" captures a vivid scene from a social gathering, painting a portrait of various attendees and the complex interplay of personalities and desires present. Through his keen observations and candid reflections, Ginsberg explores themes of social dynamics, attraction, and the juxtaposition of intellectualism with raw human connection.

The poem opens with the lively ambiance of a party: "amid glasses clinking, mineral water, schnapps / among professors' smiling beards, sneaker'd classicists, / intelligent lady millionaire / literary Patron fag hags earth mothers of Lambeth, Trocadero, Hyde Park, 5th Avenue." This opening sets a scene of diversity and mingling, where different social and intellectual circles intersect. The detailed list of attendees highlights the eclectic mix of people, from professors and classicists to wealthy patrons and journalists, each bringing their unique presence to the gathering.

Ginsberg's description continues to capture the variety of individuals: "blond haired journalists with bracelets, grand readers of Dostoyevsky & Gogol-senior editor escorts from Trotskyite weeklies, lesbians sitting on glossy magazine covers." These lines emphasize the range of backgrounds and interests among the guests, creating a tapestry of intellectual and cultural richness. The mention of specific authors like Dostoyevsky and Gogol underscores the literary and intellectual nature of the party, while also hinting at a deeper, perhaps more existential layer of the social interactions taking place.

The focus then shifts to a particular individual who stands out from the crowd: "what have we here? a kid moving from foyer to bathroom, thin body, / Pale cheeked with red cap, 18 year old window washer, / came with Señora Murillo." This young man, with his distinct appearance and humble occupation, contrasts sharply with the more sophisticated guests. His presence introduces an element of simplicity and sincerity amidst the intellectual and social sophistication of the party.

Ginsberg notes the boy's connection to Señora Murillo: "She admired his impudence, amused by his / sincere legs." This admiration for the boy's impudence and sincerity suggests a refreshing contrast to the possibly contrived or performative nature of the other guests. The poet himself feels a similar attraction, as he admits: "as I admire his glance, he turns aside to / gaze at me, I'm / happy to guess he'll show his naked body in bed / where we talk the refined old doctrine, / Coemergent Wisdom." This final turn toward a potential intimate encounter underscores the theme of human connection that transcends social and intellectual barriers.

The poem's conclusion suggests a desire for authenticity and genuine interaction, beyond the surface level of social roles and intellectual posturing. The "refined old doctrine, / Coemergent Wisdom" hints at a deeper, perhaps spiritual or philosophical conversation that the poet hopes to engage in, one that integrates body and mind, desire and intellect.

"After the Party" by Allen Ginsberg is a rich, observational piece that juxtaposes the social dynamics of a sophisticated gathering with the poet's personal reflections on attraction and connection. Through vivid descriptions and candid self-exploration, Ginsberg invites readers to consider the layers of interaction that define human gatherings, emphasizing the search for authenticity and meaningful engagement amidst the cacophony of social conventions.

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