Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov's "An Embroidery" is a delicate and evocative poem that intertwines the elements of fairy tale and domestic life, creating a rich tapestry of imagery and symbolism. The poem explores themes of duality, transformation, and the merging of human and animal worlds through the characters of Rose Red and Rose White.

The poem begins with a vivid description of Rose Red, whose "hair is brown as fur / and shines in firelight." This immediately situates her in a warm, intimate setting, preparing a simple, rustic supper for the bear. The imagery of "honey and apples, curds and whey" evokes a sense of nurturing and care, emphasizing Rose Red's domestic and compassionate nature.

In contrast, Rose White is characterized by her "grey eyes" that look into the "dark forest." This sets her apart as more contemplative and possibly more apprehensive than her sister. The contrast between Rose Red's burning cheeks, indicative of her "ardent, joyful / compassionate heart," and Rose White's paleness, as she "turns away when she hears / the bear's paw on the latch," highlights their differing responses to the bear and what he represents.

When the bear enters, he brings with him the essence of the wild, "frost on his fur" and "giving off sparks" as he warms by the fire. Rose Red's reaction, catching "the scent of the forest, / of mushrooms, of rosin," signifies her deep connection and acceptance of the natural world, blending the domestic with the wild.

The sisters sing to the bear, their song a multifaceted "cradle song, a loom song, / a song about marriage, about / a pilgrimage to the mountains / long ago." This song weaves together themes of nurturing, domesticity, union, and journey, underscoring the poem's blend of fairy tale and real-life motifs. The bear's response, nodding and humming before he sleeps, suggests a peaceful, almost enchanted interaction between the human and animal realms.

As the Roses prepare for sleep, their dreams reflect their inner worlds and desires. Rose Red dreams of a cave smelling of honey, combing "the fur of her cubs / with a golden comb," symbolizing her nurturing nature and a harmonious union with the wild. Rose White, however, lies awake, contemplating her future.

The final lines introduce a hint of transformation and mystery: "Rose White shall marry the bear's brother. / Shall he too / when the time is ripe, / step from the bear's hide?" This evokes the classic fairy tale motif of transformation, suggesting that the bear's brother might also reveal a hidden human form. The question "Is that other, her bridegroom, / here in the room?" leaves readers with a sense of anticipation and mystery, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy.

"An Embroidery" by Denise Levertov beautifully captures the dualities of life—compassion and contemplation, domesticity and wildness, human and animal. Through its rich imagery and nuanced symbolism, the poem invites readers to explore the depths of these contrasts and the potential for transformation within them. Levertov's skillful weaving of fairy tale elements with intimate domestic scenes creates a poignant and timeless reflection on love, nature, and the intertwining of human lives with the natural world.

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