Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Anthony Hecht's "In Memory of David Kalstone" is a poignant elegy that commemorates the life and impact of the poet's friend, David Kalstone. Through the use of vivid imagery and a deeply personal tone, Hecht reflects on their shared moments and Kalstone's lasting legacy.

The poem opens with a recollection of a specific meal, marked by the "Lime-and mint mayonnaise and salsa verde" that "Accompanied poached fish that Helen made." This detailed memory anchors the poem in a tangible past, bringing to life the conviviality and warmth of a gathering during the "salmon season." The specificity of the dishes and the setting conveys the intimacy of their friendship and the richness of shared experiences.

Kalstone's transformation from a living presence to "a faint blurred absence" underscores the shock and finality of death. Hecht mourns the loss of someone who was "Funny, intelligent, kindness itself," qualities that made Kalstone a cherished friend. The juxtaposition of his vibrant life with his current absence heightens the sense of loss.

Despite his passing, Kalstone leaves behind "Three of the finest books upon my shelf," a testament to his intellectual legacy. These books serve as a tangible reminder of his contributions and the enduring impact of his work. Hecht subtly shifts the focus from personal grief to a broader appreciation of Kalstone's literary achievements.

The reference to Rosalind from Shakespeare's "As You Like It", who remarks, "Men die from time to time, but not for love," adds a layer of irony and depth. This quote suggests that while death is inevitable, love remains a potent, enduring force. However, Hecht contrasts this with the tragic reality of Kalstone's death, which feels like the loss of an entire "Forest of Arden," symbolizing an idyllic world shattered by the "plague."

The poem then transitions to a description of Kalstone's final resting place. His ashes are "Scattered upon the calm Venetian tides," a serene and beautiful image that contrasts with the earlier references to death and loss. The choice of Venice, a city known for its beauty and its relationship with water, adds a layer of grace and tranquility to the remembrance. The ashes "descend / Even to the bottom of the monstrous world," suggesting a return to the elemental and the eternal.

As the ashes "lap at marble steps and pass below / The little bridges," they integrate into the city's fabric, symbolizing Kalstone's lasting influence and the way memories intermingle with the world. The final image of the "liquified Palazzo Barbaro" captures the fleeting nature of life and the interplay between permanence and transience. The "mirrored splendor" that "briefly entertains / Your passing" suggests that while Kalstone's presence is ephemeral, it leaves a lasting impression, as the edifice "writhes and twists, wrinkles and reassembles."

Hecht's elegy for Kalstone is both a personal and universal meditation on loss, memory, and legacy. Through vivid imagery and poignant reflections, the poem captures the essence of a cherished friendship and the enduring impact of a life well-lived. It stands as a testament to the power of memory to preserve and honor those who have passed, ensuring that their influence continues to resonate.

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