Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Albert Goldbarth’s poem "Stomackes" presents a vivid exploration of the tangible and intangible aspects of human existence, grounding abstract concepts in the reality of physical sustenance and historical context. The poem opens with an epigraph from James Deetz, highlighting the gap in our understanding of the daily lives of Puritans, especially their dietary habits. This sets the stage for Goldbarth’s intricate weaving of historical, philosophical, and personal narratives, each anchored by the act of eating and the physicality of existence.

In the first section, Goldbarth reconnects lofty ideals such as God, liberty, and early governance with the mundane but vital details of Puritan meals. The juxtaposition of grand ideas with simple, earthy foods like "oyster peeces in barley beer" and "chopt cod & venyson seethed in a blood broth" underscores the importance of grounding philosophical musings in the physical world. David Ignatow's quote, “seeking transcendence but loving bread,” encapsulates this duality, reminding us that even the most spiritual or intellectual pursuits are sustained by basic human needs.

The second section expands on the theme of grounding by discussing how easily we can become lost in abstract thinking. Goldbarth uses the imagery of shamans and spiritual journeys to illustrate the importance of returning to the tangible world. The mention of Inanna, a goddess resurrected by water and bread, highlights the necessity of physical sustenance even in mythic narratives. This section serves as a reminder that while theoretical and philosophical explorations are valuable, they must be balanced by a connection to the corporeal world.

Goldbarth continues this exploration in the third section, reflecting on the ease with which we can become untethered from the physical. He criticizes the digital age's tendency to prioritize information over tangible objects, as exemplified by the archivist’s preference for data over paper. The transformation of human bones into "native archeological remains" further illustrates how language can distance us from the reality of physical objects and experiences. The historical anecdote of the Narragansetts sending arrows wrapped in a snake skin to the Plymouth colonists serves as a poignant reminder of the tangible symbols that carry profound meaning and significance.

The fourth section brings a personal and communal dimension to the poem, recounting the story of a spirit's journey and eventual return to its people. This narrative underscores the deep connection between identity, community, and the physical world. The visceral imagery of hunger and the satisfaction of returning to familiar sustenance highlights the importance of physical and emotional grounding.

Goldbarth’s poem concludes with a reflection on the names of early settlers, emphasizing their connection to specific labor and tangible objects. The names "Cooper," "Fletcher," "Miller," and others evoke a sense of rootedness in the physical world and the meaningful work that sustains it. The final lines celebrate the specificity and beauty of these names, contrasting them with the abstract, often alienating language of modern discourse. The names themselves become a form of resistance against the depersonalization and detachment that can arise from overly abstract thinking.

"Stomackes" is a rich tapestry that intertwines historical narrative, philosophical reflection, and personal meditation, all grounded in the physical reality of food and sustenance. Goldbarth’s skillful use of historical details, vivid imagery, and personal anecdotes creates a compelling argument for the importance of maintaining a connection to the tangible world, even amidst the complexities of modern life. The poem ultimately celebrates the grounding force of physical sustenance and the enduring power of names and stories that connect us to our history and to each other.

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