Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Honored Guest" by John Ashbery is a poem that delves into the themes of memory, time, and the elusive nature of understanding oneself and others. The poem opens with an offering of "nice things we have no use for," which includes "polished twilight, mix of clouds and sun, [and] minnows in a stream." This gesture of giving away what seems unnecessary yet beautiful sets the tone for a meditation on the ephemeral and intangible aspects of life.

The phrase "They’re yours forever, / or another dream leaves you thirsty, / waking" suggests the transient nature of dreams and how they leave us yearning for something more substantial and real. The mention of a "clean, unopened letter / and the smell of toast" evokes a sense of domestic comfort and the everyday, grounding the poem in familiar yet poignant details.

The setting shifts to a school that has closed due to rain, symbolizing a pause or a disruption in the normal flow of life. The "calendar has backed up or been reversed" further emphasizes the disorientation in time, a common theme in Ashbery's work, where the past, present, and future seem to merge and confuse.

The poem becomes a reflection on identity and the search for understanding, with lines like "Anyway, it was fun, trying to figure out / who you were, what it was that led you to us." This exploration of identity and connection is deepened by the image of a "uniformed" man and a girl, which may represent a longing for the past or for missed opportunities.

The closing lines of the poem bring a sense of closure and resignation. The speaker acknowledges the limitations of what can be offered or understood: "Everything’s been locked up / for the night, I couldn’t get it for you / if I wanted to." The imagery of drizzling rain and weeping lamps creates a melancholic atmosphere, suggesting that there is something significant yet unattainable, "boxed in forever, always getting closer."

Overall, "Honored Guest" is a contemplative poem that weaves together themes of memory, time, and the complexities of human connection. Ashbery's characteristic blend of vivid imagery and elusive narrative creates a dreamlike quality, inviting the reader to reflect on the mysteries of life and the elusive nature of understanding.

POEM TEXT: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2000/05/11/honored-guest/

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