Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Spoken from the Hedgerows" by Jorie Graham is a powerful meditation on war, comradeship, and the intense, transformative experiences of soldiers. The poem's structure reflects a narrative of personal and collective memory, blending historical references with intimate reflections to capture the essence of soldiers' experiences during war.

The poem opens with the desire to "bring back a time and place," evoking nostalgia and a longing for unity: "As in 'we are all in this / together.'" This introduction sets the tone for the exploration of shared experiences and the deep bonds formed in the crucible of combat. The mention of "The United States and her allies / fought for Freedom" situates the poem within the context of World War II, grounding the reflections in a specific historical moment.

Graham delves into the visceral reality of war, juxtaposing abstract ideals with the brutal immediacy of combat: "The experience of killing and getting killed. / Get missed. Get hit." The abrupt, fragmented lines convey the chaos and unpredictability of battle. The poem then shifts to a personal perspective, with the speaker addressing the sun and holiday, seeking a connection to normalcy amidst the violence: "Sun—is it with us. Holiday, / are you with us on this beach today."

The speaker identifies as a paratrooper, embodying the role of a soldier consumed by duty and camaraderie: "greatness I house in my body, deepset, my / hands on these triggers." The repetition of "not me—not me— / only those to the left and right of me" underscores the selflessness and collective identity forged in combat. The desire to be seen and recognized—"permit me to let you see me"—reflects the yearning for acknowledgment and understanding of the soldiers' sacrifices.

The poem vividly captures the bond between soldiers, described as "an entity—never to be relinquished, never to be / repeated." This comradeship is portrayed as a transcendent experience, where personal boundaries dissolve in the face of shared suffering and mutual dependence: "A man insists on dying for / an other. Protect. Bail out. No regard to / consequence. A mystical concoction." The use of first-person accounts and direct quotations, such as those from Private Kurt Gabel and Webster, lends authenticity and emotional weight to the poem.

Graham explores the psychological impact of war, emphasizing the inevitability of death and the soldiers' resignation to their fate: "It can't happen to me. It can happen to me. It is / going to happen to me. Nothing / is going to prevent it." The letters to parents reveal the stark contrast between the soldiers' acceptance of death and the perception of death in civilian life: "I wish I could persuade you to regard death / as casually as we do over here."

The poem addresses the moral complexities and ethical dilemmas faced by soldiers, such as the question posed to a mother: "would you prefer for someone else's son to die in the mud?" This poignant inquiry highlights the shared humanity and the harsh realities of wartime decisions. The inevitability of returning to the front, despite severe injuries, underscores the relentless demands placed on soldiers: "This wound which almost killed him / healed up as well and he went back."

The closing lines of the poem capture the fatalistic and pragmatic mindset of soldiers: "If death comes, friend, let it come quick. / And don't play the hero, there is no past or future. Don't play / the hero. Ok. Let's go. Move out. Say goodbye." This farewell is both a command and a resignation, reflecting the soldiers' acceptance of their roles and the ephemeral nature of life in combat.

In "Spoken from the Hedgerows," Jorie Graham masterfully intertwines historical context, personal narratives, and philosophical reflections to create a poignant and profound exploration of war and comradeship. The poem's rich imagery and emotional depth invite readers to contemplate the sacrifices made by soldiers and the enduring impact of their experiences on their sense of identity and humanity. Through its blend of personal and collective memory, the poem offers a powerful tribute to those who have endured the trials of war.

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