Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Not Only / But Also," by John Ashbery, is a reflective and nuanced poem that delves into themes of journey, memory, self-awareness, and the passage of time. Ashbery, known for his complex, layered poetry, often intertwines ordinary experiences with profound philosophical insights, and this poem is no exception.

The poem opens with the notion of transferring "the one to the other," immediately setting a tone of transformation and transition. This idea of transfer can be interpreted in various ways: the movement from one phase of life to another, the shift in perspectives, or the journey from the physical to the metaphysical. The mention of living "on the plain of insistent self-knowledge" suggests a state of self-awareness or enlightenment that the speaker has achieved.

The setting "just outside the great city" evokes a sense of being on the periphery, both physically and metaphorically. The speaker observes people who "come and go," a motif that underscores the transient nature of life and experiences. This observation leads to contemplation on how individuals adapt to the "light that rains on the traveller's back," which could symbolize the weight of experiences, knowledge, or even the passage of time that each person carries with them.

The poem's exploration of "the journey" is central to its thematic structure. This journey is not just a physical one but also a metaphor for life's path, filled with uncertainties and ambiguities. The speaker is unsure whether the actions and movements observed are beginnings or endings, symbolized by the ambiguity of whether they are "preparations" or a "welcome back." This uncertainty reflects the human condition, where the distinction between starting and concluding phases of life is often blurred.

The reference to the "old circle of stone posts" surrounded by "vines and muted shimmers" and "sighing at noon" evokes a sense of ancient, timeless nature. This contrasts with the "terrain of stars" and the "robe of only that journey," suggesting a dichotomy between the earthly, known world and the celestial, unknown realm. This juxtaposition highlights the human desire to explore and understand both the tangible and intangible aspects of existence.

The speaker reflects on the time spent in the company of an unnamed "you," indicating a shared history and experiences. The return to a familiar place or state of mind is met with mixed emotions—amusement and fear—reflecting the complexity of revisiting the past and confronting memories.

The poem concludes with the speaker's realization of having left something "important back home," a metaphor for an essential aspect of the self or a crucial insight that was overlooked or forgotten. This realization leads to a contemplative tone, where the speaker muses on the simplicity of this forgotten element and its significance in the broader context of life and human progress.

Overall, "Not Only / But Also" is a meditation on the human journey through life, marked by transitions, discoveries, and the continuous search for understanding and meaning. Ashbery's poetic style, characterized by its abstract imagery and contemplative tone, invites readers to explore the depths of their own experiences and perceptions, making the poem a rich and thought-provoking piece.

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