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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
"Horses Coming Up Behind" by Robert Bly is a compelling and richly symbolic poem that delves into themes of time, transformation, and the journey of life. Through the metaphor of riderless horses and the imagery of a race, Bly explores the complexity of human existence, the pursuit of purpose, and the acceptance of mortality and loss. The poem opens with an invitation to notice the horses galloping past, suggesting a world in motion, full of unbridled energy and potential. The speculation that these might be horses without riders, or riders transformed into horses, introduces the theme of transformation and the fluid boundaries between different states of being. This idea resonates with spiritual and philosophical notions of reincarnation and the transmigration of souls, suggesting that existence encompasses more than the visible, tangible world. Bly's reflection on the absurdity of a world without these metaphysical "horses coming up behind us" underscores the importance of recognizing and embracing the unseen forces and potentialities that drive our lives. The exhortation to "Ride faster!" conveys a sense of urgency, emphasizing the fleeting nature of time and the imperative to engage fully with life's journey. The lamentation over "so many centuries" gone by without seizing the opportunity to live fully highlights a common human regret—the sense of time wasted or potential unfulfilled. Bly touches on the preciousness of being born into a human body, a condition fraught with challenges but rich with opportunities for growth and experience. This passage urges readers to value their existence and to embrace the journey with determination and awareness. The acknowledgment that the speaker might be "the rider destined to lose the race" introduces a shift in perspective, from the pursuit of victory to the acceptance and even celebration of failure. Bly suggests that there is a profound joy to be found in the act of participating, regardless of the outcome. This sentiment is reinforced by the indifference to whether literary characters like Anna and Vronsky find their way home, pointing to a broader existential acceptance that transcends individual stories and outcomes. The poem concludes with a recognition of the community of riders, all engaged in the same existential race, each facing their own struggles and triumphs. The image of riders on fast horses passing by in the night, with their "thin cheekbones," evokes a sense of camaraderie and shared destiny among those who navigate the complexities of life, acknowledging the beauty and nobility in the effort itself, regardless of its success or failure. "Horses Coming Up Behind" is a profound meditation on life's journey, offering a nuanced perspective on ambition, identity, and the acceptance of life's impermanence. Through his masterful use of imagery and metaphor, Robert Bly invites readers to reflect on their own paths, the unseen forces that propel them forward, and the intrinsic value of the experiences they accumulate along the way.
| Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE PRODIGAL SON by ROBERT BLY FUGUE FOR A DROWNED GIRL by JAMES GALVIN TELL'S BIRTHPLACE by SAMUEL TAYLOR COLERIDGE SONG OF SHERWOOD by ALFRED NOYES HITOPADESA: DEDICATION by EDWIN ARNOLD CASTLES IN THE AIR by JAMES BALLANTYNE VERSES, RESPECTFULLY & AFFECTIONALLY INSCRIBED TO PROFESSIONAL FRIEND by BERNARD BARTON |
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