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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
"The Flirtation" by Michael Blumenthal is a deeply evocative and sensuously charged poem that explores themes of desire, distance, and the longing for connection. Through vivid imagery and metaphor, Blumenthal captures the intensity of attraction and the barriers—both physical and emotional—that often keep individuals apart. The poem navigates the space between fantasy and reality, delving into the complex emotions that arise from unfulfilled desires and the constructs of social and personal identity. The opening line, "I am tired of looking at you through this glass," immediately sets the tone of longing and separation, establishing a barrier between the speaker and the object of their affection. This glass is both literal and metaphorical, representing the physical distance that separates them and the psychological barriers that prevent true intimacy. The speaker's yearning transcends this barrier, imagining the other's eyes, hair, and the shared values that would make them perfect companions. Blumenthal's use of nature imagery, such as "the scent of lilacs, the texture of Vermont in September," and "cruising the ferns and coffee tables of this building," adds a layer of sensuality and depth to the poem. These descriptions not only paint a vivid picture of the object of the speaker's desire but also underscore the natural, instinctive quality of their attraction. The phrase "eyes beating your forehead for a glimpse of me" is particularly striking, suggesting an intense, almost desperate search for connection. The comparison of legs to "a chorus of violins" further enhances the sensual and almost musical nature of the attraction, creating a sense of harmony and longing that pervades the poem. As the poem progresses, the speaker reveals a deeper layer of complexity in their desire, acknowledging the performative aspects of their interactions. Watching the other "washing other men's hair," the speaker is both jealous and intrigued, recognizing the seductive power of the other's presence and the influence they wield over others. This observation leads to a reflection on the nature of intimacy and the desire to break free from the constraints of their current circumstances to explore a more authentic connection. The closing lines of the poem, describing both the speaker and the object of their desire as "two high-priced whores," going home to strangers, introduces a stark commentary on the commodification of love and intimacy. This metaphor speaks to the transactional nature of their interactions with others, highlighting the emptiness and dissatisfaction that can accompany such encounters. Yet, even in this bleak depiction, there is a sense of hope and longing, as they whisper each other's names "to the impossible windows," suggesting a yearning for something more genuine and profound. "The Flirtation" is a masterful exploration of the complexities of desire, the pain of separation, and the human quest for connection. Through its rich imagery and emotional depth, the poem invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of longing, the barriers that keep them from reaching out, and the transformative power of genuine intimacy.
| Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...AMERICAN WEDDING by ESSEX HEMPHILL HISTORY OF DESIRE by TONY HOAGLAND ARISTOTLE TO PHYLLIS by JOHN HOLLANDER |
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