Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Marilyn Hacker's "Lines Declining a Transatlantic Dinner Invitation" is a clever and humorous piece that deftly combines wit, literary allusion, and a candid reflection on the social dynamics of gatherings. Through the persona's polite yet firm declination of an invitation, Hacker explores themes of age, social obligations, and the unpredictable nature of social events, all while maintaining a playful tone.

The poem begins with a nod to W.H. Auden, referencing his penchant for "Small Odd Numbers" at dinner parties. Auden's belief that a dinner party should not count guests in pairs, unless furnished with loveseats, sets the stage for the speaker's regretful decline. This allusion to Auden serves not only as a tribute but also as a framing device for the speaker's musings on the complexities and potential pitfalls of social gatherings.

Hacker's use of precise and formal language—"Regretfully, I proffer my excuses"—imbues the poem with a sense of decorum and politeness. However, this formality is laced with humor and irony as the speaker describes the potential disasters that could mar the dinner party. The phrase "snowed in here in New York City" immediately grounds the poem in a specific, relatable scenario, contrasting the imagined party's location with the speaker's current, less glamorous reality.

The poem's humor shines through in the catalog of potential disasters: from cab-drivers on strike to a woman-poet-hating editor lurking near the kitchen door. Each scenario is vividly and comically detailed, highlighting the unpredictability and chaos that can accompany social events. The mention of "A-Levels, or Social Disease" humorously exaggerates the possible reasons why guests might abruptly leave, emphasizing the speaker's preference for avoiding such uncertainties.

Hacker's exploration of age and social dynamics is particularly poignant. The line "better to be discussed than be de trop" reflects a mature understanding of social interactions, where the speaker prefers to be the topic of conversation rather than an unwelcome guest. This sentiment is further underscored by the speaker's acknowledgment of the "unexpected often is disaster," capturing the cautious wisdom that comes with experience.

The poem also touches on the intricacies of literary and artistic circles. The mention of a "woman-poet-hating editor" and a "new chum who was scathing in The New Review" highlights the tensions and rivalries that can exist within such communities. These references add a layer of insider knowledge and critique, suggesting that the speaker is well-acquainted with the intricacies and pitfalls of the literary world.

The poem concludes with a playful reference to the logistical challenges of international travel—"As passports take two weeks to put in shape"—which humorously underscores the speaker's decision to stay put. The final lines, "Speaking of grapes—I hope you bought Biscuit—pour one more brandy, as it were, on me," add a convivial touch, suggesting a toast in absentia and maintaining a warm connection despite the decline.

In "Lines Declining a Transatlantic Dinner Invitation," Marilyn Hacker masterfully combines wit, literary references, and a candid reflection on the complexities of social interactions. Through the speaker's humorous and thoughtful response, Hacker explores themes of age, social dynamics, and the unpredictability of gatherings, all while maintaining a playful and engaging tone. The poem captures the delicate balance between politeness and honesty, providing a charming and insightful commentary on the art of declining an invitation.

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