Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

TURTLE, by KAY RYAN Recitation by Author Poet Analysis Poet's Biography

"Turtle" is a poem written by Kay Ryan, an American poet born in 1945. The poem was first published in Ryan's 2002 poetry collection, "Say Uncle." The poem is a metaphorical exploration of the nature of vulnerability and protection, using the image of a turtle as a symbol for the human condition.

Explanation:

The poem "Turtle" explores the nature of vulnerability and protection. The poem starts by describing the shell of a turtle, which is a form of protection that keeps the turtle safe from harm. However, the poem goes on to suggest that this protection is not infallible, and that the turtle is still vulnerable despite its shell. The poem then compares the turtle's vulnerability to that of a person, suggesting that we all have our own "shells" that protect us from the outside world, but that we are still vulnerable to emotional and psychological harm. The poem concludes by suggesting that vulnerability is a fundamental part of the human condition, and that we must learn to accept and embrace it.

Poetic Elements:

The poem "Turtle" is a rhymed couplet poem, with each couplet consisting of two lines that rhyme. The rhyme scheme is AABB. The poem also makes use of metaphor, with the image of the turtle representing the human condition. The poem is written in a simple, straightforward style, with short lines and no punctuation.

Conclusion:

"Turtle" is a powerful exploration of the nature of vulnerability and protection. By using the image of a turtle as a metaphor for the human condition, Kay Ryan suggests that we are all vulnerable despite our efforts to protect ourselves. The poem encourages us to accept and embrace our vulnerability, and to recognize that it is a fundamental part of what makes us human.

Poem Snippet:

"Who would be burdened/with such a shell to carry?"

"But the turtle, /ancient and needing to prevail, /can never be sure/what shell is real."

"What indwelling force/creates this heaviness, /this heft?"

"But what's the burden/compared to honor,/compared to being?"