Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Insane Decisions" by John Ashbery is a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and the continuous search for meaning in the mundane and transient aspects of life. The poem's title itself hints at the unpredictable, often irrational nature of life choices and the paths they lead us down.

The opening lines, "Somehow I always do manage but / You found them for me, what / I love, lakes and paintings," suggest a sense of gratitude towards someone who has helped the speaker rediscover joy in simple things like nature and art. This appreciation for the ordinary and the beautiful is a recurring theme in Ashbery’s work, reflecting his interest in the interplay between everyday experiences and deeper emotional states.

The subsequent stanza shifts to a more somber tone, with the imagery of something slipping its mooring in the night and being gone by daybreak. This metaphor could represent loss – whether of people, time, or opportunities – and the speaker’s passive role in this loss, as indicated by the line "All I did was let the kettle boil." The "familiar silhouette" that distracts from deeper contemplation could symbolize the comfort found in routine, which often prevents us from confronting more profound issues or emotions.

The poem then moves to reflect on the concept of absence and presence, with the phrase "It's vestigial. Nothing is missing." This paradoxical statement suggests that while something integral may seem absent, its essence or impact remains. This idea resonates with the theme of enduring influence despite physical absence, whether it be of a person, a feeling, or a moment in time.

The description of "Houses markedly more modest" and "A view of the parking lot" brings attention back to the mundane and the everyday. Ashbery often finds significance and beauty in ordinary settings, suggesting that there is more to these scenes than meets the eye.

In the final stanzas, Ashbery touches on the theme of persistence and continuity amidst change. "Certain frequencies / Haven't abandoned it yet" implies that some aspects of life or memory remain constant, even as others fade. The mention of "old stalls" and the resilience of "The very simple thing of this world" points to the enduring value of simplicity and the foundational elements of human experience.

The poem concludes with the striking image of a "Comma in the eye of God." This could be interpreted as a metaphor for human life and decisions – seemingly small and insignificant in the grand scheme, yet crucial in the narrative of existence. The "desired effect" at the poem's end leaves the reader contemplating what that effect might be, whether it refers to the impact of our choices, the lasting influence of what we love, or the enduring nature of beauty in an ever-changing world.

Overall, "Insane Decisions" is a contemplative piece that weaves together themes of appreciation for the ordinary, the impact of loss, the persistence of the essential, and the search for meaning in a complex world. It reflects Ashbery’s unique ability to find depth and significance in everyday experiences and emotions.

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