Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Frost's poem "Version" presents a playful and philosophical narrative, blending humor with a meditation on existence and non-existence. Through the metaphor of an archer and his target, Frost explores the nature of reality and the concept of matter.

The poem begins with the introduction of an archer: "Once there was an Archer, / And there was a minute / When He shot a shaft / On a New Departure." This sets the stage for an action that breaks from the ordinary, suggesting a moment of innovation or a shift in perspective. The phrase "New Departure" hints at a novel or unconventional aim, setting the tone for the poem's exploration of abstract ideas.

Frost injects humor into the scene by suggesting that the archer found comedy in his act: "Then He must have laughed; / Comedy was in it." This introduces a light-hearted element, indicating that the archer's target and the outcome of his shot are meant to be viewed with a sense of amusement.

The target of the archer's shot is described as "the non-existence / Of the Phoenix pullet / (The M?????? [not being] of Plato)." The Phoenix, a mythical bird that regenerates from its ashes, symbolizes rebirth and immortality. The "non-existence of the Phoenix pullet" implies an impossible or paradoxical target, as the Phoenix cannot truly be nonexistent. The reference to Plato and the concept of "not being" alludes to philosophical discussions about the nature of reality and non-reality.

The outcome of the shot is depicted humorously: "And the shaft got blunted / On her non-resistance. / Like a dum-dum bullet - / Did in fact get splattered / Like a ripe tomato." The use of "dum-dum bullet" (a type of bullet designed to expand on impact) and the comparison to a "ripe tomato" emphasize the futility and absurdity of the archer's attempt. The shaft, or arrow, loses its sharpness and effectiveness upon encountering the non-existent target, leading to a comic, messy result.

The poem concludes with the line "That's how matter mattered," bringing the focus back to the concept of matter. This phrase can be interpreted in multiple ways. On one level, it suggests that the interaction between the archer's arrow and the non-existent target demonstrates the importance of physical matter in determining outcomes. On another level, it reflects on the broader philosophical question of how physical existence ("matter") interacts with and defines the nature of reality.

"Version" by Robert Frost cleverly intertwines humor with deep philosophical inquiry. Through the allegory of the archer and his impossible target, Frost invites readers to consider the nature of existence, the role of matter, and the inherent comedy in attempting to engage with abstract or non-existent concepts. The poem's playful tone and vivid imagery make complex philosophical ideas accessible, while also prompting reflection on the paradoxes and mysteries of reality.

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