Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Howard Nemerov's poem "A Primer of the Daily Round" presents a series of interconnected vignettes using the alphabet to structure its narrative. This approach allows Nemerov to explore the complexity and absurdity of everyday human actions and interactions, creating a tapestry of modern life's mundane yet significant moments. Each letter introduces a new character and scenario, weaving together a mosaic of activities that highlight the interplay of personal, social, and moral dimensions.

The poem begins with "A peels an apple, while B kneels to God," juxtaposing a simple, mundane action with a moment of spiritual devotion. This contrast sets the tone for the rest of the poem, where ordinary tasks are interspersed with more profound or dramatic events. The use of alphabetical characters as stand-ins for people adds a layer of universality, suggesting that these actions could belong to anyone, anywhere.

As the narrative progresses, the interactions between the characters become more complex. "C telephones to D, who has a hand / On E's knee," introduces a chain of communication and physical intimacy, illustrating the interconnectedness of people's lives. This connection is further complicated by the variety of actions that follow, such as "F coughs," a mundane but relatable moment, and "G turns up the sod / For H's grave," which brings a sobering element of mortality into the mix.

The poem continues to oscillate between the trivial and the serious. "I do not understand" reflects a moment of confusion or incomprehension, a common human experience amidst the chaos. "J is bringing one clay pigeon down / While K brings down a nightstick on L's head," starkly contrasts a leisure activity with an act of violence, highlighting the unpredictable and often harsh realities of life.

The narrative captures a broad spectrum of human behavior, from the mundane ("M takes mustard, N drives into town") to the intimate and personal ("a goes to bed with P, and Q drops dead"). The suddenness of Q's death amidst the ordinary actions reinforces the poem's theme of life's unpredictability.

As the poem nears its end, the interactions become more entangled. "R lies to S, but happens to be heard / By T, who tells U not to fire V / For having to give W the word / That X is now deceiving Y with Z," illustrates a web of deceit, communication, and consequence. This intricate interplay underscores the interconnectedness of human actions and the ripple effects they can create.

The poem concludes by circling back to the beginning: "Z, / Who happens just now to remember A / Peeling an apple somewhere far away." This cyclical structure not only ties the narrative together but also emphasizes the continuous and repetitive nature of daily life. The simple act of peeling an apple, initially mundane, gains significance as it is remembered at the poem's end, suggesting that even the most ordinary moments are part of the larger tapestry of existence.

In "A Primer of the Daily Round," Nemerov masterfully uses the alphabet as a framework to depict the complexities of daily life. The poem’s structure and progression highlight the randomness, interconnectedness, and often absurd nature of human actions. Through its vivid and varied vignettes, the poem invites readers to reflect on the intricate web of relationships and events that constitute our everyday experiences, acknowledging both their triviality and their profound impact.

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