Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Donald Justice's "On an Anniversary" is a poignant reflection on love and the passage of time. The poem captures the enduring nature of a relationship that has weathered many years, emphasizing the constancy of love despite the inevitable changes brought by time.

The poem opens with a striking image of the swift passage of time: "Thirty years and more go by / In the blinking of an eye." This line sets the stage for the reflective tone of the poem, highlighting how quickly the years have passed. The phrase "blinking of an eye" suggests a sense of amazement at how fleeting time can feel when looking back over a long period.

Despite the years that have passed, the speaker's partner remains unchanged in their eyes: "And you are still the same / As when first you took my name." This declaration of constancy is both romantic and nostalgic, suggesting that the love and admiration the speaker feels have remained steadfast. The use of "took my name" refers to the tradition of marriage, underscoring the commitment and bond that has lasted over the decades.

The speaker continues to describe their partner's enduring beauty: "Much the same blush now as then / Glimmers through the peach-pale skin." The comparison of the blush to "peach-pale skin" evokes a delicate and youthful image, reinforcing the idea that the partner's essence and appearance have not faded with time. The word "glimmers" adds a sense of vitality and subtle brilliance.

In the lines "Time (but as with a glove) / Lightly touches you, my love," Justice uses a simile to convey the gentle impact of time on the partner. The metaphor of a glove suggests a soft, protective touch, indicating that time has not harshly affected the partner's appearance or spirit. This gentle treatment by time contrasts with the often harsh reality of aging, emphasizing the unique and cherished nature of their relationship.

The poem then shifts to a serene, contemplative moment: "Stand with me a minute still / While night climbs our little hill." The invitation to stand together and observe the night suggests a shared moment of tranquility and reflection. The "little hill" symbolizes their shared journey and experiences, as well as the passage of time marked by the transition from day to night.

As they stand together, they observe the world around them: "Below, the lights of cars / Move, and overhead the stars." The movement of car lights below and the stars above create a sense of continuity and the ongoing flow of life. This juxtaposition of the mundane and the celestial highlights the timeless nature of their love in contrast to the ever-changing world.

The final lines of the poem bring a sense of resolution and contentment: "The estranging years have come, / Come and gone, and we are home." The "estranging years" refer to the challenges and changes that time brings, which can create distance or separation. However, the phrase "we are home" signifies that despite these challenges, their love has remained a constant, providing a sense of stability and belonging.

The poem concludes with a hopeful and enduring sentiment: "Time joins us as a friend, / And the evening has no end." By personifying time as a friend, Justice suggests that time is no longer an adversary but a companion in their journey. The idea that "the evening has no end" evokes a sense of eternal togetherness and peace, implying that their love transcends the temporal constraints of life.

"On an Anniversary" is a beautifully crafted poem that explores the themes of love, time, and constancy. Through its tender and reflective language, Justice captures the essence of a lasting relationship that has endured the test of time, celebrating the beauty and strength of a love that remains unchanged despite the years.

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