Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Linda Gregg’s "I Thought on His Desire for Three Days" is a profound exploration of conscious choice, desire, and the complexities of love and existence. The poem’s narrative is imbued with a deep sense of introspection and reflection, as the speaker recounts a deliberate decision to engage in an affair with a married man, framing it within the broader context of personal growth and the nature of human experience.

The poem opens with an epigraph from Nietzsche: “I draw circles around me and holy boundaries,” which sets the stage for the speaker’s exploration of self-imposed limits and sacred spaces within which they choose to operate. This notion of drawing boundaries is pivotal as the speaker navigates the moral and emotional landscape of their decision.

The declaration, "I chose this man, consciously, deliberately," establishes the speaker’s agency and the intentional nature of their actions. This deliberate choice is not made lightly but with careful contemplation over three days. The decision results in a summer filled with intimate and joyous moments, symbolizing a period of warmth and vitality in the speaker’s life.

The imagery of lying on the grass in the dark with the man’s hand on her stomach while others sing quietly conveys a sense of serene intimacy and connection. This moment is described as “prodigious,” highlighting the extraordinary nature of their bond and the speaker’s calm acceptance of his desire. This union is seen as the merging of opposite powers, suggesting a harmonious balance between contrasting elements within the relationship.

Despite the joy and fulfillment derived from this affair, the speaker acknowledges the complexity of their situation, being a "secret" because the man is married. This secrecy does not seem to diminish the value of their existence together; rather, it is seen as a part of the broader tapestry of life. The speaker’s self-awareness and acceptance of their actions are evident when they recount the wife’s angry call and their quiet internal acknowledgment of being called a “whore.” The acceptance of this label, albeit quietly, reflects the speaker’s understanding of societal judgments while internally asserting their autonomy and the legitimacy of their experience.

The poem also delves into the theme of self-creation and resilience. The speaker recalls their younger self, writing about a “new spirit” they made themselves, symbolizing personal growth and transformation. The act of dancing alone before a mirror and the imagery of a flower with sad leaves but vibrant color near the center suggests a recognition of beauty and life’s complexity, even amidst darkness and sorrow.

Chicago, with its buses, seasonal changes, and police sirens, serves as a backdrop to the speaker’s reflections, grounding their personal narrative in the rhythms of urban life. The mention of a police siren running through their heart, though not directed at them, underscores the pervasive sense of vulnerability and awareness of the broader world’s harsh realities.

The poem concludes with a reflection on a summer rain, which, despite its incessant nature, brings liveliness and keeps the speaker awake. This final image encapsulates the speaker’s contentment and gratitude for having lived through their experiences, despite their complexity and moral ambiguity.

In "I Thought on His Desire for Three Days," Linda Gregg masterfully intertwines themes of choice, desire, morality, and personal growth. The speaker’s journey through love, secrecy, and self-reflection is portrayed with lyrical beauty and emotional depth, offering a nuanced perspective on the human condition and the choices that define our lives.

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