Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Robert Creeley’s "Note Read Re / Letter of Lawrence’s" is a brief yet incisive exploration of societal norms, intimacy, and the fine line between what is deemed obscene and what is accepted as natural. Referring indirectly to D.H. Lawrence, a writer known for his progressive and often controversial views on sexuality, Creeley captures a sentiment that contrasts mechanized isolation with shared human intimacy. The poem highlights the distinction between solitary gratification and mutual connection, reflecting on how societal perceptions of decency are shaped by the nature of interpersonal relationships and expressions of love.

The poem’s opening line, "to Mrs. Aldous Huxley?" grounds the poem in the context of literary circles and correspondence, suggesting that this insight is part of an intellectual exchange rather than a solitary observation. The mention of "Lawrence" and "Mrs. Aldous Huxley" brings to mind figures associated with challenging societal conventions, particularly regarding human sexuality and relationships. By invoking these cultural figures, Creeley frames the subject matter within a context of literary rebellion and intellectual freedom, implying that the sentiments expressed are part of a broader critique of social mores.

The next lines—"That films are obscene / if when the young man and woman come home, / they masturbate one by one"—highlight a specific scenario that Lawrence (and thus Creeley) considers morally empty or unsatisfactory. The solitary act of each person gratifying themselves "one by one" introduces an image of isolation rather than connection, where each individual remains locked in their own experience without bridging the gap to another. By describing this as “obscene,” the line suggests that isolation within intimacy is, in a way, a failure of the potential for human connection. This disconnection becomes "obscene" not in its content but in its lack of relational depth, reinforcing the idea that mutual experiences are preferable to isolated ones.

The following line, "Not so— / if they make love," directly contrasts this isolation with the concept of intimacy. The phrase "Not so" asserts that the act itself is transformed when shared, shedding its obscenity when it involves genuine connection. By framing the act of “making love” as a wholesome alternative, Creeley suggests that the presence of mutual affection and understanding imbues the encounter with a sense of humanity and acceptance. It’s the shared experience—the act of coming together in mutual vulnerability—that removes any moral ambiguity from the scenario, creating an atmosphere of openness and emotional connection.

Structurally, "Note Read Re / Letter of Lawrence’s" is terse, almost aphoristic, with enjambed lines that emphasize the poem’s dichotomy between isolation and connection. The enjambment mirrors the shift from solitary actions to mutual intimacy, creating a sense of contrast and separation within the poem’s own form. Each phrase seems to hang on the line, inviting the reader to consider the implications of each thought individually before they coalesce into a final message of unity and understanding. This structure allows the poem to move fluidly between critique and affirmation, encapsulating its message with minimal language.

Thematically, "Note Read Re / Letter of Lawrence’s" is a commentary on the ways societal norms around decency often miss the deeper significance of human connection. The poem implies that mutual love and understanding elevate human interactions beyond mere physicality, transforming them into meaningful expressions of affection. This message resonates with Lawrence’s own views on intimacy, which often emphasized the sacredness and transformative potential of human relationships. In essence, the poem suggests that it is not the act itself but the quality of connection within it that determines its moral or aesthetic value, challenging readers to reconsider their own perceptions of what is “obscene” or acceptable in the realm of human intimacy.

In conclusion, Robert Creeley’s "Note Read Re / Letter of Lawrence’s" is a brief yet powerful reflection on intimacy, isolation, and societal perceptions of decency. Through its minimalist style and allusions to literary figures who defied convention, the poem critiques the superficial judgments often placed on expressions of sexuality. By contrasting solitary gratification with shared love, Creeley highlights the importance of connection and mutuality, suggesting that true intimacy transcends societal labels and becomes a space of authenticity and human connection. Ultimately, the poem invites readers to look beyond appearances and consider the deeper qualities that make human experiences meaningful, challenging conventional views on intimacy and morality.

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