Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Knocking Around" by John Ashbery is a reflective poem that explores the complexities of memory, the passage of time, and the human experience. The poem begins with a sense of expectation, where the speaker anticipates that a change in routine (like drinking in a new place) might lead to a transformation or a new beginning. However, this hope quickly dissolves into the realization that change is not always straightforward or simple.

The poem delves into the idea that certain things in life temporarily fade away, only to be remembered later with affection. This cyclical nature of memory and value is illustrated through references to Art Deco and the "tulip mania" of Holland—both historical phenomena that experienced periods of obscurity followed by renewed appreciation.

As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on the daily experience of the sun entering a living room, symbolizing the regularity and predictability of life. Despite the familiarity of this routine, there's an undercurrent of something forgotten or a sense of loss, suggesting that our understanding of life is incomplete and often overshadowed by the unknown.

The poem touches on the themes of inevitability and acceptance. The recurrent image of night as a friend implies a reconciliation with the darker, more mysterious aspects of existence. The speaker also acknowledges the routine presence of a man outside the house and unanswered phone calls, portraying a sense of resigned acceptance to life's uncertainties and inexplicable events.

Ashbery beautifully captures the ebb and flow of life through the metaphor of the ocean's tides. This imagery highlights the constant yet ever-changing nature of existence. The ocean represents life itself, while the changing tides symbolize our varying perceptions and experiences.

The poem concludes with a profound realization that as we grow older and accumulate experiences, our perception of time and space transforms. Life becomes a "jar with no lid," signifying boundless possibilities and freedom. The speaker suggests that we live our lives passionately on the "vague terraces, verandas, walkways" of existence, fully engaging with the forms that life presents. However, there is also an acknowledgment of the limitations of language and narrative in capturing the essence of human experience, as we "would make lousy characters in a novel."

Overall, "Knocking Around" is a contemplative and introspective poem that invites readers to ponder the transient yet enduring nature of life, memory, and the human condition. Ashbery's use of vivid imagery and philosophical musings offers a nuanced exploration of how we navigate the complexities of existence and find meaning amidst the ordinary and the unknown.

POEM TEXT: https://archives.newyorker.com/newyorker/1979-03-26/flipbook/040/

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