Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Albert Goldbarth’s poem "Problem Solving" intricately connects themes of ingenuity, creativity, and human endeavor through varied historical and personal lenses, offering a rich tapestry of human experience in the act of solving problems. The poem opens with a reference to Kenneth Clark’s account of Leonardo da Vinci’s ambitious plan to divert the Arno River, highlighting the Renaissance master’s unique blend of artistic and scientific genius. This reference to Clark serves as a gateway into the exploration of Leonardo's multifaceted approach to understanding and manipulating the natural world.

Leonardo’s task of redirecting the Arno is not merely an engineering challenge; it embodies the intersection of art, science, and imagination. Leonardo's ability to visualize and realize complex solutions is emblematic of his broader quest to grasp the fundamental principles governing the universe. This historical context sets the stage for Goldbarth’s broader meditation on the nature of problem-solving.

The poem shifts from Leonardo’s 16th-century endeavors to a more intimate, contemporary setting, where the speaker’s sister prepares for childbirth in 1983. The mention of Lamaze classes, a modern method to ease the birthing process through controlled breathing, presents a parallel to Leonardo’s meticulous studies. Just as Leonardo sought to control and channel the forces of nature, modern parents seek to manage the natural process of childbirth through learned techniques. This connection underscores the timeless nature of human ingenuity and the universal quest for control and understanding.

Goldbarth further explores this theme through the artistic process, exemplified by a sculptor who uses her daughter’s hair to model marble sculptures. This act of transforming personal, sentimental objects into art mirrors Leonardo’s transformation of natural observations into artistic and scientific masterpieces. The sculptor’s dedication to capturing the essence of flowing water in marble resonates with Leonardo’s quest for precision, highlighting the shared drive for perfection and beauty across different mediums and eras.

The poem’s exploration of human anatomy, particularly through Leonardo’s detailed sketches of the fetus, ties the historical narrative to personal experiences. The speaker’s reflections on his sister’s pregnancy and the birth of his niece, Lindsay Nichol Baran, celebrate the continuity of life and the perpetual human drive to solve problems and create. This personal connection reinforces the poem’s meditation on the interconnectedness of all forms of creativity and problem-solving.

The concluding lines return to Leonardo’s enduring legacy, with a reference to H.F. Judson’s description of Leonardo’s maps of Tuscany as “the first modern map in Western history.” This acknowledgment of Leonardo’s groundbreaking contributions underscores his role as a pioneer who bridged art and science.

Goldbarth’s poem ultimately captures the essence of human creativity and problem-solving, linking the grand achievements of historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci to the everyday acts of innovation and care in contemporary life.. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful reflections, Goldbarth weaves a narrative that celebrates the enduring human spirit of invention and the quest to understand and shape our world.

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