Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Kenneth Koch’s poem “To the Past” is a profound exploration of the omnipresence of the past and its unyielding influence over the present and future. Through the use of personification, Koch brings the past to life as a relentless and inescapable entity that continuously shapes human existence.

The poem opens with a striking declaration: "In every microsecond of the present, you're here." This line immediately establishes the past as an omnipresent force, constantly intertwining with the present moment. The poet's assertion that it "doesn't seem fair" highlights a sense of frustration or resignation towards the inevitable presence of the past. Fairness, as Koch points out, is irrelevant to the past, suggesting that the past operates beyond moral judgments or considerations of equity.

Koch employs vivid imagery to depict the past as a dynamic and almost sentient presence. The image of the past shaking a "cape or blanket" behind the poet's shoulders conjures a sense of something lurking, always ready to envelop and remind one of what has transpired. This imagery emphasizes the past's ability to intrude upon the present, regardless of physical or temporal distance. Even when the poet attempts to escape by running to the car, the past remains unshakable, illustrating its persistent and unavoidable nature.

The poet's contemplation of driving through the past raises the question, "what can undo you?" This rhetorical question underscores the futility of trying to erase or alter the past. The past is immutable, and any attempt to undo it is inherently doomed to fail. This realization is reinforced by the line, "At all parties for you, everyone is always dying," which poignantly captures the inevitable passage of time and the inherent connection between the past and mortality.

Koch continues to personify the past by describing its actions at a metaphorical party. The past consumes the present by eating food and smoking cigarettes, indulging in the moments meant for the living. The past then feigns laziness, telling the present to "go on" while it ostensibly takes a break. However, the poet recognizes this as a lie, understanding that the past never truly rests or relinquishes its hold. This deception underscores the perpetual influence of the past, always present and active even when it appears dormant.

The final lines of the poem encapsulate the complex relationship between the past and the present. The poet acknowledges the inevitability of the past's influence, stating, "You can't help yourself, but neither can we." This mutual helplessness suggests a symbiotic relationship where both the past and the present are bound together, each shaping and defining the other. The concluding line, "Together, mighty past, we dominate things," acknowledges the power and dominance of this relationship. It is a recognition that the past, with all its memories, experiences, and lessons, is an integral and inextricable part of existence.

“To the Past” is a meditation on the enduring presence of the past and its impact on human life. Through rich imagery and personification, Koch conveys the persistent, pervasive nature of the past, highlighting its role in shaping the present and future. The poem captures the inevitability of this influence, presenting a nuanced understanding of how the past and present coexist, constantly interacting and defining each other in the tapestry of time.

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