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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | |||
In "Open Sesame," Edward Field explores themes of opportunity, ambition, and the tension between aspiration and limitation. The poem employs the imagery of a mythical door in the rock, referencing the tale of "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves," while highlighting the frustration of narrowly missing an opportunity. The poem begins with an evocative description: "The door in the rock closed just as he was about to enter." The urgency of the moment is palpable as the speaker reveals that the protagonist's fingers "even left imprints in the stone where he gripped the panels, / straining against them as they slid together." Despite his desperate effort to enter, the door shuts just before he can get through. The poem continues, painting a picture of his struggle: "A minute more / and he would have gotten in." The protagonist's near-success underscores the tragedy of missing an opportunity by a narrow margin. Field employs the mythical imagery of a sealed rock face, with the protagonist now "almost embedded in the rock, arms outstretched / across the seamless face of it." This final image suggests that the protagonist has become one with the rock, his ambition frozen in time. His "arms outstretched" convey a sense of longing and determination, while being "almost embedded in the rock" implies a sense of futility and entrapment. Themes and Interpretation: 1. Opportunity and Ambition: The poem explores the tension between opportunity and ambition, highlighting the frustration of missing an opportunity by a narrow margin. 2. Determination and Futility: The protagonist's determination is evident in his effort to push through the door, but his failure leaves him in a state of futile longing. 3. Myth and Reality: Field draws on mythical imagery to illustrate a universal experience—the struggle to achieve one's goals and the challenges of facing limitations. Structure and Tone: The poem is written in free verse, allowing Field to adopt a succinct and poignant tone. The imagery is vivid yet concise, creating a powerful narrative with few words. Conclusion: "Open Sesame" by Edward Field is a concise exploration of opportunity, ambition, and the frustration of narrowly missing one's goals. Through vivid imagery and mythical references, Field captures the universal experience of striving for something just beyond reach. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own aspirations and the challenges of balancing determination with acceptance.
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