Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"In Another Time" by John Ashbery is a reflective, evocative poem that explores the themes of memory, perception, and the passage of time. Ashbery, known for his complex and layered poetry, weaves a tapestry of images and sensations that invite multiple interpretations and encourage the reader to contemplate the fluidity of experience and the elusive nature of understanding.

The poem begins with the notion of stopping – a pause in movement or thought – suggesting a moment of reflection or hesitation. The forest, a traditional symbol of the unknown or subconscious, is "not too dark," implying that the journey or exploration is not threatening, yet there is an underlying sense of uncertainty or ambiguity.

As the poem unfolds, Ashbery juxtaposes the tranquility of nature with the bustling activity of urban life. The imagery of "cars discharging patrons in front of theatres" and the fluctuating theater lights symbolize the dynamic, ever-changing nature of human experiences and the societal constructs in which individuals find themselves.

The phrase "A kind of powdered suburban poetry" suggests a critique of the mundane or ordinary, hinting at a deeper longing for something more profound or meaningful beneath the surface of everyday life. The poem reflects on the passage from one era of the speaker's life – "the cartoon era of my early life" – to another, marked by "printed sheaves," indicating a transition from innocence and simplicity to complexity and perhaps, a more jaded perspective.

The enigmatic lines "What’s printed on this thing? / Who knows what it’s going to be?" emphasize the uncertainty and unpredictability of life. The imagery of "gasping like a fish on a line" conveys a sense of struggle and desperation, perhaps reflecting the human condition's inherent challenges and the search for meaning.

In the final stanza, Ashbery presents a "slicker portrait" – a representation that is polished yet perhaps superficial. The speaker recalls bending "down under the waterfall / as though to read little signs in the moss," suggesting a search for understanding or enlightenment. This scene, imbued with a sense of discovery and wonder, is contrasted with the acknowledgment that such moments are ephemeral and ultimately indescribable: "there is no way to transcribe it."

"In Another Time" is quintessential Ashbery – a poem rich in imagery, allusion, and ambiguity. It invites the reader to ponder the complexities of human experience, the transformation of self over time, and the elusive nature of memory and understanding. The poem's beauty lies in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and introspection, encouraging the reader to reflect on their own journey through life and the moments that defy easy explanation

POEM TEXT: https://archives.newyorker.com/newyorker/1989-04-24/flipbook/080/

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