Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Strange Cinema" by John Ashbery is a reflective and introspective poem, characterized by its meditative tone and exploration of themes such as regret, the passage of time, and the elusive nature of understanding and resolution.

The opening lines, "In sooth, I come here sadly, / not trembling, not against my will," suggest a resigned acceptance of the speaker's circumstances. The speaker arrives with a sense of melancholy, yet willingly, seeking clarity or closure. The phrase "set the record straight" implies a desire for truth or reconciliation, perhaps with another person or with the past itself.

Ashbery's mention of the "other board members" could symbolize various internal or external forces that influence one's life decisions or the course of events. The speaker expresses a sense of futility or resignation, acknowledging that the situation or relationship in question has been ongoing for too long to expect a significant change.

The poem then shifts to a reflection on the past, suggesting that there was a "rightness" to the way things unfolded, even though it may now appear strange or incomprehensible. The imagery of the night "in its undress" creates an intimate, vulnerable scene, evoking a sense of lost opportunities or what might have been.

Ashbery introduces the concept of "new retrofitting trends," possibly alluding to attempts to revise or reinterpret past events in light of present knowledge or attitudes. This idea, coupled with "silence, and sweetness," hints at the complexities of memory and the human tendency to idealize or soften the edges of the past.

The repetition of "Doucement, doucement" (French for "gently, gently") underscores a cautious approach to dealing with delicate emotions or memories. The speaker suggests that once the "sweetness is adjusted," a greater understanding or insight might be achieved.

The concluding lines, "That is all I can offer you, / my lost, my loved one," reveal a deep sense of loss and affection. The speaker acknowledges the limitations of what can be offered to the "lost" one – be it a person, a past self, or a bygone era.

"Strange Cinema" delves into the human experience of reflecting on the past, grappling with unresolved feelings, and the ongoing quest for meaning and closure. Ashbery's use of evocative imagery and contemplative language invites the reader to ponder the complexities of memory, regret, and the elusive nature of understanding.

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