Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Mark Jarman's "Unholy Sonnet: 25" explores the theme of pleasure as a central, almost divine force in human experience. Through vivid imagery and a focus on sensuality, Jarman delves into the ways in which pleasure permeates our lives, from the simple act of drinking wine to the intimate moments between lovers. The poem suggests that in these moments, pleasure itself becomes a god-like presence, watching over and guiding the actions of those who seek it.

The poem opens with a focus on the sensory delight of opening a bottle of wine: "Nothing but pleasure in the bottle’s voice / As the cork pulls from its neck." This image immediately sets the tone, emphasizing the anticipation and satisfaction found in such a simple act. The personification of the bottle's "voice" and the cork's release imbues the scene with a sense of intimacy and excitement.

As the wine is poured, the pleasure continues to unfold: "Nothing, as / The wine finds its legs in the bell of the glass, / But pleasure, on the lips, on the tongue, in the muscles / And veins of the throat." Jarman's use of detailed, sensory language highlights the physical and visceral experience of drinking wine. The wine's "legs" in the glass, its journey across the lips and tongue, and its path down the throat all contribute to a rich tapestry of pleasure that engages multiple senses.

The poem then introduces a contrast between the light of the candle flames and the hovering darkness: "And though darkness hovers above / The candle flames, there is only pleasure when / The face flushes and the lover sees it." This juxtaposition underscores the idea that even in the presence of darkness or potential negativity, pleasure remains a dominant and prevailing force. The intimate moment between lovers, marked by a flushed face and mutual recognition, is described as a source of pure pleasure.

Jarman elevates pleasure to a divine status, describing it as "a small god … / Is our true god." This declaration suggests that pleasure, in its many forms, holds a central place in human experience and is perhaps the most authentic guiding force in our lives. The ellipsis following "a small god" invites readers to pause and consider the implications of this assertion, highlighting the pervasive and sometimes overlooked power of pleasure.

The poem's climax focuses on the lovers as they "disrobe and embrace," with their "nakedness becomes a delectable / As butter and olive oil." The comparison to butter and olive oil evokes a sense of naturalness, richness, and sensuality. These commonplace yet luxurious substances enhance the portrayal of nakedness as something inherently pleasurable and indulgent.

In the final line, "only pleasure watches," Jarman encapsulates the idea that pleasure is an omnipresent observer and participant in these moments of human connection and indulgence. The personification of pleasure as an entity that watches over the lovers reinforces its significance and centrality in the human experience.

"Unholy Sonnet: 25" by Mark Jarman eloquently captures the essence of pleasure as a fundamental and almost divine aspect of life. Through evocative imagery and a focus on sensual experiences, the poem invites readers to appreciate the depth and richness of pleasure in everyday moments and intimate encounters. Jarman's exploration of pleasure as a small god challenges traditional notions of divinity and highlights the profound impact of sensory and emotional delight in shaping our lives.

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