Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"On Waterproofing" by Anne Carson presents a poignant narrative that encapsulates the tragic and complex interplay of personal and historical forces against the backdrop of the Holocaust. Through the lens of Franz Kafka's sister, Ottla, and her husband, Josef David, Carson delves into themes of foresight, sacrifice, and the devastating impact of systemic persecution. The narrative, while concise, is rich with layers of meaning, evoking the individual's vulnerability in the face of overwhelming historical currents and the poignant attempts to assert some measure of control or protection in the face of inevitable tragedy.

The poem begins by establishing the familial and cultural context: "Franz Kafka was Jewish. He had a sister, Ottla, Jewish." This simple statement sets the stage for a narrative deeply rooted in the complexities of identity and the perilous position of Jewish individuals in Europe during the era of the Holocaust. Ottla's marriage to Josef David, "not Jewish," introduces an initial layer of complexity regarding identity, belonging, and safety amidst rising anti-Semitic legislation and sentiment.

The introduction of the Nuremberg Laws to Bohemia-Moravia in 1942 marks a turning point in the narrative, bringing the historical and personal into direct collision. Ottla's suggestion of divorce to protect her non-Jewish husband from the implications of being married to a Jewish woman under the new laws reveals her foresight and the depth of her concern for her family's well-being. Her rational approach, discussing "sleep shapes and property and their two daughters," underscores the desperate attempts to navigate the incomprehensible reality imposed by the Holocaust's systemic dehumanization and violence.

Carson's mention that Ottla "did not mention, because she did not yet know the word, Auschwitz, where she would die in October 1943" is a powerful invocation of the horror that awaits, unknown to the characters at the time but all too familiar to the reader. This anachronistic knowledge creates a profound sense of foreboding and sorrow, emphasizing the tragic irony of attempts to prepare or protect oneself from the horrors of the Holocaust.

The final details of the narrative, the packing of a rucksack and the shoeshine given by Josef David, symbolize a poignant farewell and a futile but deeply human attempt to provide care and protection ("Now they are waterproof," he said). The act of waterproofing the shoes, while practical on the surface, is laden with metaphorical significance, suggesting a desire to shield Ottla from the harm that awaits her, despite the impossibility of doing so.

"On Waterproofing" is a testament to Anne Carson's ability to weave historical context, personal narrative, and profound thematic exploration into a brief yet impactful narrative. Through the story of Ottla Kafka and Josef David, Carson invites reflection on the resilience of the human spirit, the complexities of identity and sacrifice, and the profound tragedy of the Holocaust. The poem stands as a poignant reminder of the individual lives caught in the maelstrom of history, their attempts to find moments of connection, protection, and dignity in the face of unimaginable loss.

POEM TEXT: https://advancedpoetry.livejournal.com/1656.html

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