Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

James Galvin’s poem "Blue or Green" is a striking meditation on relationships, perception, and the nature of poetry itself. Through a series of juxtaposed images and reflective musings, Galvin explores how disparate elements—whether in relationships or in poetry—can come together to form a cohesive whole, even amidst contradiction and complexity.

The poem begins with a powerful assertion about relationships: “We don't belong to each other. / We belong together.” This paradox captures the essence of individual autonomy within the unity of a relationship. It suggests that while two people may not possess each other, they are intrinsically connected, highlighting a deeper sense of belonging that transcends ownership.

Galvin then shifts to a meta-poetic reflection, contemplating the nature of poems: “Some poems / belong together to prove the intentionality of subatomic particles.” This line suggests that poems, like particles, have an inherent purpose and interconnectedness, reinforcing the theme of belonging. The whimsical idea of poems eating with scissors and being like kissing a porcupine introduces a playful yet sharp edge, indicating the varied and sometimes painful experiences poetry can encapsulate.

The line “God, by the way, is disappointed in some of your recent / choices” brings a touch of divine judgment into the mix, adding a layer of existential reflection. This abrupt shift grounds the reader in the reality of personal accountability and moral introspection.

The poem’s exploration of perception is highlighted in the exchange about eye color: “When she said my eyes were / definitely blue, I said, How can you see that in the dark? / How can you not? she said, and that was like some poems.” This interaction emphasizes the idea that some truths are evident even in obscurity, much like the inherent meaning in certain poems. It also underscores the intimate and perceptive nature of personal relationships.

Galvin’s imagery of poems being “blinded three times” and going “like death before dishonor” evokes a sense of struggle and integrity, suggesting that poetry often grapples with profound and challenging themes. The anecdote about cherries at the movies and a subsequent picnic in bed brings a touch of sensuality and spontaneity, celebrating the small, cherished moments that poetry can capture.

The line “Never revered I crumbs so / highly” beautifully illustrates how insignificant details can hold great significance in moments of intimacy. This reverence for the mundane parallels how poems can elevate everyday experiences.

Galvin continues with the idea of poems having “perfect posture, as if hanging by / filaments from the sky,” which conjures images of ethereal grace and precision. These poems “walk like dancers, / noiselessly,” suggesting an effortless elegance that stands in contrast to the more chaotic and raw imagery earlier in the poem.

The assertion “All poems are love poems” encapsulates the overarching theme that poetry, in its many forms, ultimately expresses love and connection. Yet, the acknowledgment that “Some poems are better off / dead” introduces a counterpoint, recognizing that not all expressions of love or art are meant to endure.

The poem concludes with a poignant declaration: “Right now I want something I don't believe in.” This final line captures the essence of longing and the human tendency to desire the unattainable or the implausible, reflecting a deep-seated yearning that is both personal and universal.

"Blue or Green" is a masterful exploration of the complexities of human relationships and the multifaceted nature of poetry. Through his vivid and varied imagery, Galvin invites readers to reflect on the interconnectedness of all things, the beauty in the mundane, and the enduring power of love and art. The poem’s rich tapestry of reflections and anecdotes offers a profound meditation on how we find meaning and connection in the world around us.

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