Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

ZAYDEE, by PHILIP LEVINE Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"Zaydee" is a poem by Philip Levine, first published in 1980 in his collection "Ashes: Poems New and Old." The poem reflects on the speaker's memories of his grandmother, Zaydee, and the influence she had on his life.

Explanation:

The poem begins with the speaker describing how Zaydee would sit and read from the Hebrew Bible to him in a "voice so small / no one could hear." He goes on to remember how she would touch him lightly on the shoulder, and he felt "her love like a butterfly." As he grew older, the speaker says that he stopped believing in God, but that Zaydee's love remained with him. He describes how she would have been proud of him, and how he wishes he could have shared his successes with her. The poem ends with the speaker realizing that his love for Zaydee is what has helped him throughout his life.

Poetic Elements:

Form: Free verse
Imagery: The speaker uses vivid sensory imagery throughout the poem, such as the image of Zaydee reading to him and the sensation of her touch on his shoulder.
Symbolism: The butterfly is used as a symbol of love and tenderness in the poem.
Tone: The tone of the poem is nostalgic and reflective.

Conclusion:

"Zaydee" is a moving tribute to the speaker's grandmother and the impact she had on his life. Through the use of vivid imagery and symbolism, Levine creates a touching portrayal of a relationship that has endured despite the passing of time. The poem is a reminder of the enduring power of love and the importance of family connections.

Poem Snippet:

"she read to me

from the Hebrew Bible

in a voice so small

no one could hear.

She touched my shoulder gently

and I felt her love like a butterfly."