Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Irving Feldman's poem "The Runners" explores the concept of movement, purpose, and transcendence through the metaphor of runners weaving through the dense, chaotic traffic of the city. The poem’s rhythmic flow and rich imagery provide insight into the inner worlds of these runners, as well as the contrasting experiences of those who watch them.

The poem opens with an ethereal description of the runners: "Here or there hundreds of them, phantom-like, / bobbing in place at street corners." The word "phantom-like" suggests that the runners are almost otherworldly, appearing at the edges of the urban environment, hovering and ready to leap forward. Feldman captures the moment of anticipation before they "lift their knees suddenly and leaping / into the densest, loudest traffic."

The traffic is described as "of briefest trajectories, of shortest views," highlighting the chaotic and short-sighted nature of city life. In contrast, the runners are "in transit yet at ease, breathing, loping, / like bearers of distance and pure directions." Here, Feldman contrasts the runners' purposeful movements with the aimless commotion of the city. They embody a sense of clarity and purpose, becoming symbols of freedom and focus.

The runners are described as "darting half naked out of nowhere and / where, where in the world are they running to?" Their mysterious origins and destinations add to their enigmatic presence. Feldman portrays them as "swift and solitary, silent beings," who effortlessly avoid obstacles: "should you now step into the path, / have dodged away." This elusive quality emphasizes their independence and singularity.

When the observer attempts to interact with them, "or, if you raise a hand / to stay them or speak, immediately / are gone." The runners remain elusive, creating "fine, singular spaces / among the street’s vociferous jargons." Their presence brings a fleeting sense of calm and purpose to the chaotic urban environment. They seem like "a still, wordless message / or question one would answer if one could grasp it."

Feldman suggests that each runner is like a message or question that we yearn to comprehend but cannot hold onto. The runners pass by, "sliding past, going away," while the observer stands with their "hand raised to no purpose." This image reflects the desire to capture the runners' sense of purpose and clarity but also the futility of trying to stop them.

Despite this, the observer's "hidden heart rejoicing that the quick heel / won’t soon, won’t ever, be overtaken." The runners' untouchable quality brings joy and inspiration to those who witness them. The observer is left longing to "suddenly / disburden yourself and follow follow." The repetition of "follow" conveys the intensity of this desire, suggesting that the runners represent a freedom and purpose that the observer deeply craves.

Structurally, "The Runners" is written in free verse, with Feldman employing enjambment to create a sense of movement and urgency. The poem’s rhythm mirrors the runners' strides, emphasizing the fluidity of their motion. The imagery is rich and layered, blending the urban environment with the metaphorical significance of the runners.

Overall, "The Runners" is a vivid meditation on purpose, transcendence, and the pursuit of meaning in a chaotic world. Feldman captures the contrast between the clarity of the runners and the cacophony of city life, creating a powerful exploration of human longing and the desire to break free from the constraints of the everyday. Through the runners, Feldman offers a vision of pure direction and freedom, inviting readers to disburden themselves and follow.

POEM TEXT: https://newcriterion.com/article/the-runners/

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