Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov's poem "To Rilke" is an homage to the influential poet Rainer Maria Rilke, capturing the mystical and transformative power of his presence and his words. Through dreamlike imagery and evocative language, Levertov delves into the profound impact of Rilke's poetic vision on her own imagination and sense of purpose.

The poem opens with the line, "Once, in dream, / the boat / pushed off from the shore." This sets a surreal and ethereal tone, inviting readers into a dreamscape where boundaries between reality and imagination blur. The act of pushing off from the shore signifies a departure from the familiar and an embarkation on a journey toward the unknown.

Levertov describes Rilke at the prow of the boat: "You at the prow were the man— all voice, though silent—who bound rowers and voyagers to the needful journey, the veiled distance, imperative mystery." Here, Rilke is portrayed as a guiding figure, his presence both authoritative and enigmatic. Despite his silence, he possesses an "all voice" quality, suggesting that his influence and command are felt deeply even without words. He binds the rowers and voyagers, symbolizing how his poetry compels and unites those who seek deeper understanding and meaning.

The poem continues to explore the sensory experience of the journey: "All the crouched effort, / creak of oarlocks, odor of sweat, sound of waters running against us was transcended: your gaze / held as we crossed." The physical exertion and the sensory details of rowing are contrasted with the transcendent nature of Rilke's gaze. His "dragonfly blue" eyes symbolize a vision that lifts the voyagers above the mundane struggles, guiding them toward a "shimmering destination." The color blue often represents depth, introspection, and the infinite, further emphasizing the profound nature of Rilke's influence.

Levertov acknowledges that she had not yet read about Rilke's journey on the Nile: "I had not read yet of your Nile journey, the enabling voice / drawing that boat upstream in your parable." This reference to the Nile journey, which appears in Rilke's writings, underscores the prophetic and intuitive connection Levertov feels with his work. Despite not having encountered this specific story, she instinctively understands the essence of his "enabling voice" and its power to inspire and guide.

The poem concludes with a reflection on the nature of Rilke's influence: "Strange that I knew / your silence was just such a song." This final line encapsulates the paradoxical quality of Rilke's impact—his silence is described as a song, suggesting that his quiet presence and unspoken words carry a profound and resonant meaning. Levertov's acknowledgment of this silent song reflects her deep appreciation for the subtle, yet powerful, way in which Rilke's poetry speaks to the soul.

"To Rilke" by Denise Levertov is a tribute to the transformative and enduring power of Rainer Maria Rilke's poetry. Through her evocative and dreamlike imagery, Levertov captures the essence of Rilke's influence, portraying him as a guiding figure whose silent presence transcends the physical and leads to profound spiritual and intellectual destinations. The poem highlights the timeless and universal nature of Rilke's work, which continues to inspire and resonate with readers across generations.

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