Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"New Realism" by John Ashbery is a poem that explores the fragmentation and fluidity of perception, memory, and reality. Ashbery's style is characterized by a stream of consciousness approach, where images and ideas flow in a seemingly unstructured manner, reflecting the complexity and unpredictability of human thought and experience.

The poem begins with a sense of loss, "I have lost the beautiful dreams / That enlisted on waking," suggesting a disconnection from an idealized or imagined reality. The imagery of a war that follows indicates a conflict between different aspects of the self or between the self and the external world.

Throughout the poem, Ashbery uses vivid and disparate images to convey a sense of the surreal and the mundane coexisting. The references to everyday objects and scenarios are juxtaposed with fantastical elements, creating a dreamlike quality. This technique highlights the blurred lines between reality and imagination, suggesting that our understanding of the world is subjective and constantly shifting.

The poem touches on themes of identity, perception, and the passage of time. Phrases like "The blond headdress is soggy / The ray carried your picture away" and "The clouds were rags, wheat the sun" illustrate the transient nature of existence and the fluidity of memory. Ashbery's use of disjointed and non-linear narrative reflects the fragmented nature of human experience.

"New Realism" also delves into the idea of the self in relation to others and the world. The mention of "the loony stock exchange / Near your dumb bank" hints at the absurdity and chaos of modern life, where value and meaning are often elusive or distorted.

In conclusion, "New Realism" is a complex and enigmatic poem that invites multiple interpretations. Ashbery's unique style challenges traditional notions of structure and meaning, encouraging readers to embrace ambiguity and explore the intricate layers of human consciousness and experience.

POEM TEXT: https://ashberyhouse.yale.edu/new-realism

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