Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Barbara Guest's poem "Noisetone" delves into the interplay between color, art, and environment, exploring how these elements influence and reflect the artist's inner and outer worlds. Through her nuanced language and imagery, Guest paints a vivid picture of artistic inspiration and the transformative power of color.

The poem begins with a universal assertion: "Each artist embarks on a personal search." This line sets the stage for an exploration of the artist's journey, suggesting that creativity is a deeply individual and introspective endeavor. The phrase "personal search" implies a quest for meaning, truth, or beauty that is unique to each artist.

Guest then introduces the concept of color as a source of "introspective refreshment," specifically mentioning green. Green, often associated with nature, growth, and renewal, becomes a symbol of rejuvenation and inspiration for the artist. This idea is further localized with the reference to Barcelona, a city known for its rich artistic heritage. The dry air of Barcelona contrasts with the idea of green as a refreshing force, perhaps hinting at the paradoxes and contrasts that fuel creative work.

The poem transitions to an American setting with the image of a water sprinkler hinting at "rinsed green." Here, green is not only a color but also an action—a process of cleansing and renewal facilitated by water. This imagery suggests that the environment, whether dry or irrigated, plays a crucial role in shaping the artist's experience and perception of color.

Guest's mention of colors breaking into "separate hues of noisetone" introduces a complex and synesthetic concept. "Noisetone" suggests that color has a sound, an auditory dimension that adds to its visual impact. This idea blurs the boundaries between the senses, highlighting the multidimensional nature of artistic perception. In a Barcelona cabaret, where green is "stirred into the mint color of drink," color becomes a sensory experience that encompasses sight, taste, and sound, transforming the mundane into the magical.

The line "The spirit is lifted among primary colors" underscores the emotional and psychological impact of color. Primary colors—red, blue, and yellow—are the building blocks of all other hues, symbolizing fundamental aspects of the human experience. In this context, they elevate the spirit, suggesting that the artist finds joy and inspiration in the purity and intensity of these colors.

Guest then introduces the idea of "Nine rows of color," which could be interpreted as a structured array or a spectrum. This imagery conveys a sense of order and harmony, as if the artist is arranging the chaotic elements of experience into a coherent and beautiful whole. The "future writ in white spaces" further emphasizes the potential and possibility inherent in art. White spaces, often associated with blank canvases or the gaps between words, represent the unknown and the yet-to-be-realized, inviting the artist and the viewer to imagine and create.

In "Noisetone," Barbara Guest masterfully intertwines the sensory, emotional, and intellectual dimensions of art. The poem reflects on how colors, especially green, serve as a source of introspection and renewal for the artist. By contrasting the environments of Barcelona and America, Guest highlights the universal yet deeply personal nature of the artistic journey. The concept of "noisetone" adds a layer of complexity, suggesting that art transcends the boundaries of the senses to create a rich, multidimensional experience. Ultimately, the poem celebrates the transformative power of color and the boundless potential of artistic creation.

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