Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Black Book, Sels. (II)" by John Berryman is a hauntingly vivid poem that explores themes of violence, persecution, and the struggle for survival within the context of Jewish history and identity. Through a series of interconnected images and historical references, Berryman paints a portrait of a people enduring centuries of suffering and displacement, while also capturing moments of individual brutality and loss.

The poem begins with the concept of "Luftmenschen," or "men who live on air," a Yiddish term that originally referred to individuals who survive through intellectual or spiritual pursuits rather than practical means. This introduces the theme of survival against the backdrop of oppression and poverty, as the "ghetto nods a mortal head" in a world filled with fear and uncertainty. The quiet desperation of this existence is punctuated by sounds of "a scurry, a sigh, retching," emphasizing the harsh realities faced by those living on the margins.

Berryman invokes the biblical Solomon to articulate a yearning for prolongation of life and freedom from vengeance, suggesting a deep longing for peace amidst turmoil. However, this desire for solace is juxtaposed with the image of a soul vanishing "like August timber / In wild woe," highlighting the ephemeral nature of joy and the inevitability of suffering.

As the poem progresses, historical and cultural references deepen the narrative. The mention of an "Ashkenazi genius" stoning Ivan and a sculptor alludes to the contributions and struggles of Jewish intellectuals and artists throughout history. The reference to Boleslaus the Good, a Polish king known for his protection of Jews, underscores the precarious nature of safety and acceptance, with the subsequent mention of "the ledge whereto we cling" symbolizing the fragile hold on security and identity.

The transition to dawn and the unfolding of a "rose" symbolizes both hope and the dawning of new challenges. The description of the Lazienki Gardens and the monument to the king who "bloodily did deliver" Vienna from the Turks serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between heroism and cruelty, and the role of memory in shaping historical narratives.

The poem concludes with a stark and disturbing scene of an officer, driven by a night of debauchery and violence, committing an act of murder against a woman who resisted him. This final act of brutality mirrors the larger themes of power, domination, and the dehumanization of others that run throughout the poem.

"Black Book, Sels. (II)" is a complex and layered work that weaves together personal and collective histories to explore the enduring impact of trauma, the search for meaning in the face of adversity, and the ways in which violence and persecution shape human experiences. Berryman's use of imagery, historical references, and shifts in perspective invites readers to reflect on the cycles of history and the resilience of the human spirit in navigating a world marked by conflict and change.

POEM TEXT: https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poetrymagazine/browse?volume=75&issue=4&page=7

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