Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Mrs Midas" by Carol Ann Duffy is a poignant reinterpretation of the Greek myth of King Midas, told from the perspective of his wife. This poem is part of Duffy's collection "The World's Wife," which gives voice to the women behind or adjacent to famous mythological and historical male figures, often highlighting the overlooked consequences their stories had on these women.

The poem unfolds as Mrs. Midas recounts the transformational moment when her husband acquired the golden touch—a wish granted that turns everything he touches into gold. The narrative captures the initial bewilderment, the gradual realization of the curse's implications, and the ultimate unraveling of their domestic life.

The poem begins on a seemingly ordinary evening, with Mrs. Midas enjoying the simple domestic act of preparing dinner, unaware that her life is about to change drastically. Her first clue comes subtly as she notices her husband under a pear tree in their garden, turning things to gold. The image of the gold twig and then the pear glowing like a lightbulb in his hand brings a surreal quality to the scene, mixing the ordinary with the magical.

As Mr. Midas enters the house, the reality of his new "gift" becomes more evident and increasingly problematic. Everyday objects like doorknobs and window blinds gleam anew, signaling the pervasive reach of his touch. Mrs. Midas's growing concern culminates at dinner when the corn on the cob turns to gold, highlighting the practical implications of Midas's wish—food, one of the most basic necessities, becomes inedible and even dangerous, as evidenced by the metaphorical "teeth of the rich" spitting out.

Duffy uses a casual, conversational tone that belies the gravity of the situation, creating a contrast that enhances the absurdity and tragedy of Mr. Midas's wish. The transformation of mundane domestic moments into scenes of alienation and horror is stark. As Mrs. Midas processes the situation, her initial shock and fear shift to pragmatic measures to cope with the bizarre reality—separating physically from her husband, locking away the cat, and adapting to a life where her husband's touch is a constant threat.

The poem skillfully shifts to deeper themes of isolation and loss as Mrs. Midas recounts the emotional and physical distance that grows between her and her husband. Her dreams are haunted by images of a golden child, symbolizing not only what could have been but also the unnatural and cursed nature of all that is touched by Midas. Ultimately, she drives him to a caravan in the woods, severing their day-to-day connection but still haunted by the memory of his touch.

In the closing lines, Mrs. Midas reflects on the lasting impact of her husband's greed and thoughtlessness, which not only physically separated them but also left a void of affection and intimacy that she still mourns. She misses "his warm hands on my skin, his touch," underscoring the deep personal loss beneath the mythical tragedy.

"Mrs Midas" explores the theme of how selfish desires can lead to unforeseen consequences that not only affect the individual but also those they love. Duffy's portrayal is both a critique of greed and a lament for the loss of human connection, making the ancient myth relevant to contemporary audiences by emphasizing the emotional and relational costs of such wishes.

POEM TEXT: https://www.scottishpoetrylibrary.org.uk/poem/mrs-midas/

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