Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"One: 8" by E.E. Cummings reflects a deep sense of nostalgia, contrasting the technological advancements of the modern world with a longing for the simplicity and genuine experiences of the past. Through his distinctive language, Cummings critiques the superficiality of contemporary life, suggesting that even with all the progress and innovations, something essential has been lost.

The poem begins with an acknowledgment that even if every desire, moment, and thing is "murdered known photographed," it still leaves us unsatisfied, "yawning" and asking ourselves, "ou sont les neiges..." This phrase, borrowed from Villon's famous line "Où sont les neiges d'antan?" (Where are the snows of yesteryear?), encapsulates the feeling of longing for what is irretrievably lost—an idealized past that can no longer be recaptured.

Cummings then juxtaposes this nostalgic sentiment with the way people talk about modern cities like London, Berlin, Paris, and various American metropolises, as well as the new gadgets and conveniences that define contemporary life: "dictaphones / wireless subways vacuum / cleaners pianolas funnygraphs skyscrapers an safetyrazors." These innovations are impressive but are described in a somewhat dismissive tone, as if they are part of a world that has lost touch with more meaningful, human experiences.

The speaker dismisses these modern marvels with a casual, "sall right in its way kiddo," signaling a grudging acknowledgment of their utility but without enthusiasm. The true affection lies in "de good ole daze," a phrase that evokes a time when things felt more authentic and meaningful.

The poem's focus then shifts to a specific memory of Christmas in the "good ole daze," a time when "Christmas / meant sumpn." The use of colloquial language emphasizes the authenticity and warmth of these memories. The reference to "Satter Nailyuh" (Saturday night, perhaps) and the statement that it "comes but once er / year" highlights the anticipation and specialness of the occasion.

Cummings portrays this past time as one of uninhibited joy and community: "wen nobody wore no doze / an went runnin aroun wid eachudder Hell / Bent fer election makin believe dey was chust born." The image of people running around "Hell Bent" and pretending to be newly born suggests a carefree, exuberant celebration of life, in stark contrast to the mechanical and detached existence suggested by the earlier references to modern technology.

In "One: 8," Cummings expresses a deep yearning for the simplicity and joy of a bygone era, critiquing the way modern life, with all its conveniences and innovations, has distanced us from these genuine experiences. Through his playful and colloquial language, he invites readers to reflect on what has been lost in the pursuit of progress and to consider the value of the "good ole daze" that live on in memory.

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