Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Marge Piercy's poem "A Story as Wet as Tears" offers a whimsical yet poignant twist on the classic fairy tale of the princess and the frog. Through the transformation of a frog into a prince and his subsequent return to froghood, Piercy explores themes of disillusionment, the fragility of romantic ideals, and the complexities of long-term relationships.

The poem begins by invoking the familiar fairy tale: "Remember the princess who kissed the frog / so he became a prince?" This introduction sets up an expectation of magical transformation and happily-ever-after. Initially, the princess and the prince enjoy a blissful period filled with dancing, toasting each other with coffee and champagne, and sharing kisses. This honeymoon phase is characterized by joy and romance, highlighting the idealistic beginnings of many relationships.

However, as time passes, the initial magic begins to fade. The shift begins subtly: "Perhaps it was / in bed after the first year had ground / around she noticed he had become cold / with her." The word "ground" suggests a sense of routine and wear, implying that the initial excitement has been worn down by the passage of time. The prince's growing coldness, both literal and metaphorical, forces the princess to seek warmth elsewhere, symbolized by the "heating pad and down comforter." His chilly and damp demeanor whenever she enters a room further underscores the growing emotional distance between them.

The prince's increasing preoccupation with water sports, hydroponics, and his insect collection signifies his retreat into interests that distance him from the princess. These activities, all associated with water and coldness, hint at his gradual reversion to his original froglike nature. The turning point comes in the third year when the princess, concerned about his health, notices he looks "quite green." His reaction—leaping away from her—foreshadows the inevitable revelation of his true nature.

The poem reaches its climax on their fifth anniversary, when the princess confronts him directly about their relationship: “My precious, don’t you love me any / more?” His response, “Rivet. Rivet,” starkly reveals that he has reverted entirely to his froglike state. The use of "rivet," which mimics a frog's croak, symbolizes the complete dissolution of his human facade and the breakdown of their relationship.

Piercy's closing lines deliver a biting commentary on the nature of romantic transformations: "Though courtship turns frogs into princes, / marriage turns them quietly back." This conclusion suggests that the enchantment of courtship can mask true natures, but the realities of marriage often strip away these illusions. The poem critiques the fairy tale notion of transformation and happily-ever-after, implying that the deeper, enduring aspects of personality and behavior eventually resurface.

"A Story as Wet as Tears" uses humor and irony to dissect the romantic idealism of fairy tales, revealing the underlying truth that relationships require more than magical transformations to endure. Marge Piercy’s retelling invites readers to reflect on the complexities and challenges of maintaining love and connection over time, emphasizing the importance of seeing and accepting each other’s true selves beyond the initial enchantment. Through this nuanced exploration, the poem offers a sobering but insightful commentary on love, marriage, and the often bittersweet journey of long-term commitment.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...