Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"April Not an Inventory But a Blizzard" is a poem by Alice Notley, first published in her collection "The Descent of Alette" in 1992. The poem reflects on the coming of spring and the turmoil and unpredictability of life.

Explanation: 

The poem begins with the speaker's observation of the month of April, which is described as "not an inventory but a blizzard." The month is characterized by sudden changes in weather, such as "a snowstorm the day after it's 70 degrees." The speaker compares the unpredictability of April to the unpredictability of life itself, where "anything can happen."

As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on their own life and the constant state of change and uncertainty they experience. The speaker feels a sense of "unmoored-ness," as if they are adrift and without a fixed sense of identity. Despite this, the speaker embraces the unpredictability of life, declaring that "we have to keep moving."

Poetic Elements:

• Form: Free verse
• Theme: Uncertainty and unpredictability
• Imagery: The imagery of the changing weather in April is used to represent the unpredictable nature of life. The imagery of "unmoored-ness" and feeling adrift is used to convey the speaker's internal struggle.
• Tone: Reflective, contemplative, and accepting.
• Sound: The poem makes use of repetition, particularly with the phrase "anything can happen," to emphasize the theme of unpredictability.
• Language: The language is plain and straightforward, with occasional metaphorical language used to convey the theme.
• Structure: The poem is structured in free verse with no fixed meter or rhyme scheme.
• Symbolism: The changing weather in April is used as a symbol for the unpredictability of life.
• Emotion: The poem conveys a sense of uncertainty and reflection, with a touch of acceptance.

Conclusion:

 "April Not an Inventory But a Blizzard" is a reflective and contemplative poem that uses the imagery of April weather to convey the theme of uncertainty and unpredictability in life. The speaker's internal struggle with feeling unmoored and adrift is a relatable experience that many readers can connect with. The poem's use of plain language and repetition emphasizes the theme and the importance of accepting life's unpredictability.

Poem Snippet:

"April is not an inventory but a blizzard

it can blow hot and cold

the day after it's 70 degrees we get a snowstorm

we have to keep moving"

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