Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Dilemma" by Conrad Aiken is a poignant and reflective poem that delves into the role of the poet in society, particularly in relation to depicting the harsh realities of life. The poem is divided into three sections, each exploring different aspects of this central theme.

In the first section, Aiken addresses the contrast between the desire to sing of beauty and the necessity to acknowledge the darker, more sordid aspects of life. The opening lines, "Not for the sordid do we seek, / In the dark alleys of our earth," suggest a reluctance to engage with the grim realities of life. However, Aiken quickly acknowledges that even in the most degraded circumstances, there is a vitality and a need to recognize the human experience in all its forms: "And lo, from sordid and from base / Passion can lift a shining face." This recognition marks a shift from idealized poetic themes to a more grounded, realistic perspective.

The second section grapples with the poet's role as a "hireling of the time," compelled to find inspiration in the "city filth" and "streets that reek." This section reflects a sense of obligation to address the struggles and hardships of everyday people. Aiken captures the dilemma of wanting to offer something uplifting or escapist while also feeling the need to be truthful about the harshness of contemporary life. The lines "They ask for song: what will you give? / They want no song of far away" emphasize the demand for poetry that resonates with the immediate, often difficult, experiences of the audience.

The third section presents a more reconciliatory view, suggesting that even in the most bleak and "sordid" situations, there is a possibility for transcendence or beauty. The image of the jail in the moonlight, with a figure looking out at the stars, symbolizes this potential for finding moments of beauty or meaning amidst confinement and despair. It's a powerful metaphor for the human spirit's ability to transcend its immediate circumstances.

Throughout the poem, Aiken wrestles with the tension between the desire to create art that is beautiful and uplifting and the responsibility to confront and reflect the often unpleasant realities of the world. The poem itself becomes a metaphor for this struggle, as Aiken navigates between these competing impulses, ultimately suggesting that the true power of poetry lies in its ability to encompass the full spectrum of human experience, from the sublime to the sordid.

In summary, "Dilemma" is a thoughtful exploration of the poet's role in society, the nature of inspiration, and the complexities of representing the truth of human experience. Aiken's poem is a testament to the enduring relevance of these themes, particularly in times of societal hardship and change.

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