Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"History" by Jorie Graham is a profound meditation on the cyclical nature of existence, the interplay between change and stasis, and the intricate dance between the material and the immaterial. The poem employs mythological imagery and philosophical reflection to explore themes of creation, transformation, and the eternal tension between opposing forces.

The poem begins with a mythic framing: "But in the myth, at the beginning of our world / matter (god x) / wants to remain asleep." This personification of matter as a reluctant god who resists awakening sets the stage for a cosmic struggle. The narrative introduces a war and a subsequent truce, resulting in "us"—the present moment of existence—and the necessity for this god to "marry change," personified as a she. This union symbolizes the ongoing process of creation and transformation, encapsulated in the "long unwinding every step of which is now, just now."

Graham uses the metaphor of a "curious small house" to describe the intimate space from which the "great girl"—symbolizing change or history—emerges. The repetition of "Turn, turn, this is the medicine, it will make you well …." suggests a ritualistic or therapeutic process, reinforcing the idea that change is both a necessary and healing force.

As the poem progresses, it situates us in the present, where the "bright swift part" of change has passed, and we are "deep into the lateness now, / undressing." This imagery of undressing signifies a stripping away of layers, an intimate unveiling of history and self. The girl, now "ringed with photographs of what / took place," stands as a witness to the past, seeking to "feel what she sees now." Her interaction with the "old King"—a representation of the inert, sleeping god—highlights the tension between action and inaction, change and stasis.

Graham explores the concept of love as the "mystery of interval," a space where opposing forces—her push, his refusal—meet and create a dynamic interplay. This love is not just an emotion but a force that drives the universe, perpetually striving to awaken the dormant god. The poet questions whether this process will ever cease: "Will she ever tire of his refusal? / Will he ever wake again and, leaning out, give birth to her / again?"

The poem's tone shifts to a more philosophical inquiry, pondering the consequences of further awakening this god: "Would we awaken him again? / Would we arouse him further from the drowse?" This line of questioning reflects a deep existential contemplation on the nature of existence and the potential outcomes of disrupting the current balance.

The imagery of the tree being "green" and the "dreamy outstretched arm" being something more than it appears emphasizes the layers of reality and perception that Graham navigates. The act of undressing, lifting, and dropping veils is portrayed as a quest for justice and truth, yet it is also an endless process: "is this justice? is this?"

As the poem nears its conclusion, Graham reflects on the endurance of this cosmic dance: "How long can it go on? / What is there underneath that could at last awaken him?" She considers various catalysts—fear of God, explanation of fear—and wonders about the aftermath of such awakening. The poem closes with a poignant question about the nature of love and its role in this eternal cycle: "And if she's naked now, then what is there to take off / next? / and then what will Love do?"

"History" by Jorie Graham masterfully intertwines mythological and philosophical elements to explore the fundamental dynamics of existence. Through rich imagery and contemplative language, the poem invites readers to reflect on the cyclical nature of change, the interplay between opposing forces, and the enduring quest for meaning and understanding in the unfolding narrative of life.

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