Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Plus" by Raymond Carver is a candid and humorous poem that delves into the shared human experience of grappling with unhealthy habits and the inevitability of aging and mortality. Through a conversational tone and vivid dialogue, Carver explores themes of self-awareness, denial, and camaraderie.

The poem begins with a character confessing his indulgences: "Lately I've been eating a lot of pork. Plus, I eat too many eggs and things," this guy said to me in the doc's office." This opening line sets the stage for a litany of unhealthy habits, highlighting the character's lack of restraint and self-discipline. The casual mention of "too many eggs and things" adds a touch of humor and relatability to his confession.

As the character continues, the extent of his unhealthy lifestyle becomes evident: "I pour on the salt. I drink twenty cups of coffee every day. I smoke. I'm having trouble with my breathing." These admissions paint a picture of a man who is fully aware of his detrimental habits but seems resigned to them. The line "Then lowered his eyes" suggests a moment of self-reflection and perhaps shame.

The poem takes a turn as the character reveals another, more mundane flaw: "Plus, I don't always clear off the table when I'm through eating. I forget. I just get up and walk away." This admission humanizes him further, showing that his issues are not just about health but also about daily habits and routines.

The character's question, "Mister, what do you think's happening to me?" serves as a plea for understanding and perhaps a hint of desperation. The speaker's response, "What do you think's happening? You're losing your marbles. And then you're going to die. Or vice versa," is blunt and darkly humorous, capturing Carver's characteristic blend of realism and wit. This response underscores the inevitability of decline while maintaining a sense of levity.

The poem shifts to a more personal interaction: "By this time we were at a place called Friendly's. We looked at menus and went on talking." The setting of Friendly's, a casual dining restaurant, adds to the poem's down-to-earth atmosphere. The mention of "our song" and "our table" suggests a shared history and a deeper connection between the two characters, highlighting the theme of camaraderie.

The closing lines, "Dinner music played from a radio in the kitchen. It was our song, see. It was our table," evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth. Despite the grim reality of their conversation, there is a sense of comfort and familiarity in their interaction.

"Plus" by Raymond Carver masterfully captures the complexities of human behavior and relationships through its witty dialogue and relatable scenarios. The poem's blend of humor and existential reflection invites readers to confront their own habits and the passage of time, while also finding solace in shared experiences and connections. Carver's ability to weave profound themes into everyday conversations makes this poem both poignant and memorable.

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