Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Lazarus" by Lucille Clifton is a profound exploration of resurrection, transformation, and the ineffable experience of returning from death. Through the biblical story of Lazarus, whom Jesus raised from the dead, Clifton delves into themes of rebirth, identity, and the mystery of existence beyond physical life. The poem is structured into three parts, each reflecting a different aspect of Lazarus's experience: his initial resurrection, his transformation, and his contemplation of his new existence.

First Day: The poem begins with Lazarus's awakening, described as a transition from stiffness to being a "pin of light." This imagery suggests a profound transformation from physical decay to a state of ethereal existence. The "voice calling / 'Lazarus, this way'" guides him towards what seems like eternity, a journey underscored by a sense of peace and transcendence. However, the command "Lazarus, come forth" abruptly halts this journey, pulling him back into the realm of the living. This moment highlights the miracle of his resurrection, witnessed by Mary and Martha, who sing his name, anchoring him back to his earthly identity through their love and recognition.

Second Day: The second part of the poem reflects on Lazarus's altered state after his return from the dead. Clifton articulates a universal truth about the transformative power of near-death experiences, suggesting that Lazarus has been fundamentally changed by what he has seen "otherwhere." The distinction between the man who entered the crypt and the one who emerged captures the profound impact of encountering the divine or the afterlife. This transformation is not just physical but spiritual, marking Lazarus as a liminal figure, forever standing between life and death.

Third Day: The final section contemplates the duality of Lazarus's journey—what he was moving from and what he was moving towards. The recurrence of light as a motif ties the sections together, symbolizing knowledge, divinity, and the essence of life itself. The mention of "seeds / turning in the grass" and Lazarus's newfound ability to "feel the world" suggests a deepened connection to the cycle of life and a heightened awareness of existence. Yet, this enlightenment comes with isolation, as Lazarus finds himself "in a crevice / on this rock stared at," a figure of fascination and fear. The closing lines, urging Mary and Martha to stand away from the "door to my grave," underscore Lazarus's unique knowledge and the solitude that accompanies his return to life. He possesses a truth known only to those who have faced death and returned, marking him as both blessed and burdened by his experience.

Through "Lazarus," Lucille Clifton offers a meditation on the mysteries of life, death, and what lies beyond. The poem is a testament to the transformative power of divine intervention and the profound changes that such experiences can bring about in an individual. Clifton's Lazarus is a figure who embodies the complexities of resurrection, living as a symbol of hope and a reminder of the unfathomable depths of the human experience.

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