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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
"Ossipee: November" by Philip Booth captures the essence of a late autumn landscape in New England, evoking the stark, serene beauty of the season and the profound sense of mystery and quiet anticipation that accompanies the onset of winter. Booth's poetry often reflects a deep connection to the natural world, and this poem is no exception, offering a snapshot that is both visually striking and emotionally evocative. The poem begins with "The dark fold of the land," immediately setting a tone of introspection and reverence for the landscape. This imagery of the land folding upon itself suggests a closeness, a wrapping up of the earth as it prepares for the deep cold to come. The description of "steeped hills settling a pond between them" paints a picture of a landscape that is both rugged and nurturing, cradling the pond in its midst. The mention of "Black ice on the pond" introduces a sense of danger and beauty, a common duality in nature. Black ice, being both treacherous and mesmerizingly beautiful, symbolizes the perilous beauty of nature that demands respect and caution. "Glacial boulders in brooks holding snow" further adds to the scene, depicting elements of the landscape that have withstood time, serving as silent witnesses to the endless cycle of seasons. The imagery of "snow squalls tall against sun" contrasts the elements of light and dark, warmth and cold, creating a dynamic interplay that is characteristic of November's transitional weather. The solitary tree "spare on the clear-cut spine of a mountain" stands as a testament to resilience and solitude, emphasizing the poem's themes of endurance and the passage of time. Perhaps the most poignant line in the poem is "Wherever it was the light plane went down won't unlock until April." This line introduces a narrative element of mystery and loss, suggesting an event—a plane crash—that has been swallowed by the landscape, hidden from view until the thaw of spring. This line serves as a metaphor for the hidden stories and secrets that the earth holds, only to be revealed in due time. It speaks to the theme of impermanence and the cycle of life and death that is an intrinsic part of the natural world. "Ossipee: November" is a contemplative piece that invites readers to reflect on the beauty and harshness of the natural world, the passage of time, and the stories hidden within the landscape. Booth's concise imagery and the emotional depth of the poem convey a profound appreciation for the natural world's quiet moments and the mysteries that lie beneath its surface. Through this poem, Booth not only captures the physical landscape of Ossipee in November but also touches upon the universal themes of life, loss, and the enduring mystery of nature. POEM TEXT: https://archives.newyorker.com/newyorker/1979-11-05/flipbook/050/
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