Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Karen Fleur Adcock’s “Incidentals: Choices” examines the complexities and compromises inherent in human preferences, whether regarding books, clothing, or romantic partners. With her trademark wit and sharp observational skills, Adcock delves into the fallibility of ideals, the inevitability of flaws, and the ultimate futility of seeking perfection in life’s choices. Through its conversational tone and vivid imagery, the poem reflects a wry acceptance of imperfection as an intrinsic aspect of human existence.

The poem opens by dismantling the romanticized notion of a single perfect choice, whether it be a book for a desert island, an outfit, or a partner. The speaker mocks the idea of an all-encompassing solution, emphasizing the limitations of such perfectionism. “One perfectly tissue-typed aesthetic match” is revealed as an illusion, incapable of sustaining satisfaction over time. The metaphor of a book on a desert island—an enduring symbol of isolation and introspection—suggests the impossibility of a singular solution to the multifaceted challenges of life. Even something as seemingly ideal as a well-chosen book would “drive you crazy within six months,” highlighting the ephemeral nature of perfection.

Adcock extends this critique to clothing with an ironic juxtaposition: an outfit suitable for both “the ball on the Titanic” and “the lifeboat afterwards.” The absurdity of this dual-purpose attire underscores the speaker’s point—life’s unpredictability renders the pursuit of a one-size-fits-all solution futile. By referencing the Titanic, a historical event marked by sudden catastrophe, the poet subtly suggests that life’s transitions often demand adaptability rather than rigidity.

The poem’s focus then shifts to relationships, where Adcock adopts a humorous yet incisive tone to critique the idea of a singular, ideal partner. The speaker highlights the inevitability of flaws, noting that “two-thirds of them get fatter by the minute, the bony ones turn out to be psychopaths, and the few in the middle range go bald.” This playful cataloging of male shortcomings underscores the speaker’s awareness of the impossibility of perfection. Adcock uses exaggeration to humorous effect, while simultaneously pointing to the deeper truth that relationships often involve compromises and disappointments.

The final stanza offers a vision of isolation, where the speaker imagines herself on a desert island, stripped of illusions. Here, the trappings of societal expectations—ideal books, perfect outfits, or flawless partners—are conspicuously absent. Instead, the speaker envisions herself wearing “old jeans and that comic dressing-gown,” symbolic of comfort and authenticity rather than perfection. The items she brings—a blank notebook and a crate of cigarettes—represent personal choice and freedom, albeit tinged with self-awareness and irony. The absence of a partner, particularly one who might “lecture you on how he managed to give them up,” is portrayed as a relief rather than a loss, reinforcing the speaker’s preference for independence over compromise.

Adcock’s use of conversational language and humor enhances the relatability of the poem. The speaker’s candid tone invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with choices and compromises, while the poem’s playful imagery lightens its existential undercurrent. The casual mention of cigarettes, for instance, evokes a sense of defiance and individuality, even as it acknowledges the impracticality of idealism.

Structurally, the poem’s fluid progression mirrors the speaker’s thought process, moving seamlessly from books to clothing to relationships. The lack of formal constraints reflects the spontaneity and unpredictability of life itself, reinforcing the poem’s theme. Adcock’s precise diction and vivid imagery lend the poem its sharpness, while the humor prevents it from becoming overly cynical or didactic.

At its core, “Incidentals: Choices” is a meditation on the limitations of human expectations and the inevitability of imperfection. By rejecting the notion of singular, all-encompassing solutions, Adcock emphasizes the importance of adaptability, self-awareness, and humor in navigating life’s complexities. The poem’s candid exploration of human foibles and its acceptance of imperfection resonate deeply, offering a refreshing perspective on the choices we make and the lives we lead.

Ultimately, Adcock’s work suggests that the pursuit of perfection is less important than embracing life’s imperfections with grace and humor. Whether on a metaphorical desert island or in the midst of everyday life, the speaker’s recognition of the value of personal authenticity over unattainable ideals offers a poignant reminder of the richness and resilience of the human experience.

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