Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Muriel Rukeyser’s poem "Waiting for Icarus" is a poignant and introspective reflection on the myth of Icarus from the perspective of a woman left behind. The poem delves into themes of expectation, betrayal, and the constraints placed on women by societal norms. Through its vivid imagery and emotional depth, Rukeyser offers a fresh interpretation of the ancient myth, emphasizing the personal and relational dimensions often overlooked in traditional retellings.

The poem opens with a series of promises made by Icarus: "He said he would be back and we’d drink wine together / He said that everything would be better than before / He said we were on the edge of a new relation." These lines set up a narrative of hope and anticipation, as the speaker recalls Icarus’s assurances of a brighter future. The repetition of "He said" underscores the trust and expectation placed in his words, creating a rhythm that mirrors the speaker’s lingering hope.

As the poem progresses, it becomes clear that Icarus’s promises were ultimately empty: "He said he would never again cringe before his father / He said that he was going to invent full-time." These declarations highlight Icarus's aspirations for independence and creativity, framing his flight not just as a physical act, but as a symbolic escape from paternal control and societal constraints.

The speaker’s recollections shift to the technical details of Icarus's flight: "He said all the buckles were very firm / He said the wax was the best wax / He said Wait for me here on the beach." These lines add a tangible, almost mundane aspect to the myth, grounding the fantastical elements in everyday reality. The mention of wax and buckles serves as a reminder of the fragile and human aspects of the endeavor, contrasting with the grandeur of flight and ambition.

The poem takes a more somber turn as the speaker reflects on the aftermath of Icarus’s departure: "I remember the gulls and the waves / I remember the islands going dark on the sea." The imagery of darkening islands and the natural elements evoke a sense of isolation and despair. The speaker’s loneliness is further emphasized by her recollection of others’ words: "I remember the girls laughing / I remember they said he only wanted to get away from me." These lines suggest that Icarus’s departure was not just a personal betrayal, but also a source of public ridicule and humiliation for the speaker.

The influence of societal attitudes is evident in the speaker’s memory of her mother’s harsh words: "I remember mother saying: Inventors are like poets, / a trashy lot / I remember she told me those who try out inventions are / worse / I remember she added: Women who love such are the worst / of all." These lines reveal the speaker’s internalized societal judgments, which condemn both the dreamers and those who support them. The mother’s words encapsulate the broader societal disdain for unconventional pursuits and the women associated with them.

The poem concludes with the speaker’s profound sense of loss and missed opportunity: "I have been waiting all day, or perhaps longer. / I would have liked to try those wings myself. / It would have been better than this." This ending underscores the speaker’s realization of her own desires and aspirations, which were overshadowed by her role as the one who waits. The wistful acknowledgment of wanting to "try those wings" herself reflects a longing for agency and adventure, contrasting sharply with her passive waiting and the resulting emptiness.

"Waiting for Icarus" transforms the myth into a powerful exploration of gender roles, societal expectations, and personal longing. Rukeyser’s use of direct, evocative language and the intimate perspective of the woman left behind provides a fresh, humanized view of the myth, inviting readers to consider the untold stories and emotional complexities that lie beneath familiar narratives. The poem ultimately calls attention to the constraints placed on women and the unfulfilled desires that accompany them, making it a poignant commentary on the human condition.

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