Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Albert Goldbarth's "Natural State" juxtaposes various forms of natural states in human existence, highlighting the contrast between serene, intellectual pursuits and harsh, often disturbing realities. The poem opens with a scene of quiet communal reading, setting a tone of intellectual absorption and familial bonding. Goldbarth's use of Darwin's meticulous study of barnacles as a focal point serves to illustrate the intense dedication to scientific inquiry, a natural state of curiosity and discovery.

In Nathan's household, each individual is engrossed in their book, creating a shared yet solitary experience of reading. The poem emphasizes the tranquility of this setting with lines like "the silence is communal." This peaceful scene is interrupted by Holly's reading of the Sunday paper, which brings to light the stark contrast between their safe, intellectual haven and the brutal realities outside. The mention of Raeshawn Nelson's injury and Anna Rietta's exploitation serves as a jarring reminder of the world's cruelty, making the reader acutely aware of the different "natural states" that people inhabit based on their circumstances.

Goldbarth deftly weaves in references to other worlds, both real and fictional, to highlight the diversity of human experience. Tristan and Aidan are immersed in fantasy novels, where the laws of their insular subuniverses are as natural to them as the horrific realities are to Raeshawn and Anna. The poem draws attention to the idea that what is familiar and routine becomes one's natural state, regardless of how bizarre or brutal it may appear to others. This is poignantly captured in the line, "use x frequency = familiarity," which succinctly encapsulates how repeated exposure normalizes even the most extraordinary or grotesque situations.

The poem then shifts to a conversation between the speaker and Sherena, who introduces another layer of natural states through her streetwise knowledge. Her casual explanation of terms like "bottom bitch" and how to navigate the prison system contrasts sharply with the speaker's and Nathan's more sheltered experiences. This interaction underscores the vast differences in what is considered normal and natural in various subcultures and social environments.

Goldbarth also brings in historical practices, such as the ritual foot binding in China, to illustrate how cultural norms dictate what is seen as natural. The excruciating process of binding feet to create "three-inch golden lilies" was once a widely accepted and desirable practice, highlighting the arbitrary nature of cultural standards and their profound impact on individuals' lives. This historical reference serves to deepen the reader's understanding of how entrenched and pervasive certain practices can become, shaping entire generations' experiences and perceptions.

The poem concludes by returning to the juxtaposition of ordinary and extraordinary realities with Sherena's text message about weather and a shooting. This casual mention of violence as part of everyday life underscores the normalization of brutality in certain contexts. Goldbarth's final anecdote about Darwin's son George asking about barnacles at a friend's house humorously yet poignantly brings the theme full circle, illustrating how what is natural and normal varies drastically depending on one's upbringing and environment.

Overall, "Natural State" is a richly layered poem that explores the diversity of human experience and the various forms of natural states that people inhabit. Through vivid imagery, historical references, and contrasting scenarios, Goldbarth highlights how familiarity and routine shape our understanding of what is normal, and how these perceptions differ across cultures, subcultures, and individual lives. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own natural states and consider the broader context of human experience that defines them.

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