Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Jack Gilbert's poem "It May Be No One Should Be Opened" delves into the themes of mystery, reverence, and the potentially destructive nature of exposing what should remain hidden. Through a series of vivid images and reflections, Gilbert explores the idea that some things, whether in nature, art, or human relationships, are best left untouched and unexplored.

The poem begins with the speaker's solemn declaration: "You know I am serious about the whales. / Their moving vast through that darkness, silent. / It is intolerable." This opening sets a tone of profound respect for the majestic and mysterious nature of whales. Their silent, immense presence in the dark ocean evokes a sense of awe and an acknowledgment of their untouched, enigmatic existence. The word "intolerable" hints at the overwhelming nature of contemplating such vast, uncharted territory.

Gilbert then shifts to other examples of beauty and mystery: "Or Crivelli, with his fruit. / The Japanese. / Or the white flesh of casaba melons always in darkness." These references to Crivelli’s detailed fruit paintings, the meticulous art of the Japanese, and the untouched interior of melons reinforce the theme of unexposed beauty. Each represents a form of art or nature that holds an intrinsic value in its hidden or untouched state.

The poem continues to emphasize the sanctity of this darkness: "That darkness unopened from the beginning. / The small emptiness at the middle in darkness. / As virgins." Here, darkness symbolizes purity and untouched potential. The comparison to virgins suggests a state of unblemished existence, emphasizing the idea that some things are inherently precious and should remain undisturbed.

Gilbert introduces a personal element with his reflection on photography: "Lighted by me. / Lighted as my hands in the darkroom / pinching film on the spindle in absolute dark." The imagery of working in a darkroom, carefully handling film, underscores the delicacy required to preserve and reveal beauty. The speaker’s hands become "large and brilliant" in this intimate, creative process, suggesting that the act of revealing or opening something hidden is both powerful and fraught with responsibility.

The repetition of "Virgins. / Whales. / Darkness and Lauds." reinforces the central motifs of purity, mystery, and reverence. "Lauds," a reference to morning prayers, suggests a spiritual dimension to the contemplation of these untouched entities.

The poem takes a cautionary turn: "But it may be that no one should be opened." This line serves as a pivotal moment, introducing the idea that opening or exposing certain things can lead to harm or loss. The examples that follow illustrate this risk: "The deer come back to the feeding station at the suddenly open season. / The girls find second loves." These images suggest vulnerability and the potential for exploitation or disillusionment.

Gilbert references mythological and historical figures to underscore the consequences of exposure: "Semele was blasted looking on the whale in even his lesser panoply. / It was the excellent Socrates ruined Athens." Semele, who was destroyed by the sight of Zeus’s true form, and Socrates, whose philosophical inquiries ultimately led to turmoil in Athens, both serve as warnings of the dangers inherent in seeking or revealing too much.

The poem concludes with a personal revelation: "Now you have fallen crazy and I have run away. / It's not the dreams. / It's this love of you that grows in me malignant." This final confession shifts the focus to the speaker’s own experience of love and loss. The term "malignant" suggests that the intensity and exposure of love have turned destructive, reinforcing the poem’s theme that some things, including deep emotions, can become harmful when fully exposed.

"It May Be No One Should Be Opened" is a contemplative exploration of the beauty and danger of revealing what is hidden. Through rich imagery and thoughtful reflections, Jack Gilbert invites readers to consider the value of mystery and the potential consequences of uncovering what should remain untouched. The poem underscores the delicate balance between admiration and intrusion, and the sometimes painful awareness that comes with deep emotional and existential exploration.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...