Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Simon J. Ortiz's poem “Don't Fret Now” offers a meditation on the futility of certain efforts in the face of sorrow and the importance of striving for meaning and perseverance in the human experience. The poem speaks directly to the idea that traditional responses to hardship, such as songs or empty reassurances, do not hold the power to alleviate pain. Instead, Ortiz advocates for a more active, grounded approach to life and the struggle to find significance, even amid sorrow.

The opening line, "Songs are useless to exculpate sorrow," sets the tone for the poem, immediately asserting that while songs may be a common cultural response to grief, they are not an effective means of absolving or overcoming sorrow. This rejection of the power of song to cure or soothe suggests that there is something deeper and more tangible required to confront the emotional weight of sorrow. Songs, in this context, are shown to be inadequate, not because they lack beauty or meaning, but because they fail to address the root of human suffering.

Ortiz follows this declaration with a key phrase: "That’s not their intent anyway." This statement acknowledges that songs may serve other purposes, such as expression, connection, or storytelling, but their intent is not to solve sorrow. By distancing songs from the task of addressing sorrow, Ortiz emphasizes that human suffering cannot be so easily remedied by external expressions. This sets up the reader to consider other, more substantive means of dealing with life's challenges.

The advice to "Strive for significance" serves as a guiding principle in the poem. Here, Ortiz shifts the focus away from passive responses to active engagement with life. To "strive for significance" suggests that humans should focus on finding meaning in their actions, efforts, and contributions rather than expecting relief from external sources. The line implies that the pursuit of meaning in one's life can be a more enduring and valuable response to hardship.

The image of "Cull seeds from grass" introduces an agricultural metaphor that emphasizes the idea of cultivation and growth. Seeds, which symbolize potential and beginnings, are taken from grass, representing the simple and natural elements of the world. This act of culling seeds can be interpreted as a metaphor for taking small, meaningful actions in life—actions that are rooted in the earth, in the real world, and that have the potential to grow and bear fruit over time.

Ortiz continues with the line, "Develop another strain of corn." This statement extends the agricultural metaphor further, suggesting that in times of sorrow, one must look for new solutions, adapt, and innovate. Just as farmers might develop a new strain of corn to better suit their needs or environment, individuals must adapt to their circumstances, working towards progress and improvement even when faced with adversity. This line conveys a message of resilience and ingenuity, encouraging the reader to persist in their efforts to find solutions and make meaningful changes.

"Whisper for rain" continues the imagery of quiet, humble requests. Rain is often seen as a symbol of renewal, nourishment, and life, and the act of whispering for rain suggests a gentle, hopeful plea for change. Rather than a loud, desperate cry for help, the whisper represents a quiet persistence and faith in the possibility of transformation. This line implies that even in difficult times, one can hold onto hope and the belief that circumstances can shift, but the approach must be subtle and patient.

The final line, "Don’t fret. Warriors will keep alive in the blood," provides a strong conclusion to the poem. Ortiz directly addresses the reader, urging them not to worry or succumb to despair. The mention of "warriors" invokes a sense of resilience, strength, and endurance. The phrase "will keep alive in the blood" suggests that the spirit of warriors, representing both literal and metaphorical resilience, is an inherent part of human nature. This line connects the individual to a broader, collective history of struggle and survival, encouraging the reader to draw strength from this shared heritage.

“In Don't Fret No”, Simon J. Ortiz offers a reflection on how to navigate sorrow and hardship. Through vivid metaphors rooted in the natural world, the poem urges a proactive and grounded response to suffering. Ortiz suggests that, instead of relying on external comforts or fleeting distractions, one should focus on cultivating meaning, adapting to circumstances, and drawing on the strength of both personal and collective history. The poem’s message is one of resilience, urging the reader not to give in to despair, but to continue striving for significance, growth, and renewal even in the face of difficulty.

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