Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Rachel Hadas’ poem "Props" uses the theatrical setting of Shakespeare's "Hamlet" to explore themes of memory, grief, and the fleeting nature of human existence. By referencing specific scenes and actions from the play, Hadas draws parallels between the stage and real life, highlighting how certain symbols and gestures resonate long after the initial moment has passed.

The poem begins with a vivid depiction of Queen Gertrude scattering white rose petals into Ophelia's grave, a gesture laden with sorrow and finality. The phrase "Sweets to the sweet!" echoes Gertrude's lines from "Hamlet," where she expresses her grief for Ophelia with a bittersweet irony, given the tragic events that have unfolded. This act of scattering petals is both a tender tribute and a stark reminder of death's inevitability.

As the poem progresses, Hadas shifts focus from the immediate mourning to the aftermath. The courtiers, mourners, family, and priest move on to their next engagements, encapsulating the idea that life continues despite personal tragedies. This reflects the line from "Hamlet": "for every man hath business and desires." The white rose petals, however, linger on the stage, symbolizing how remnants of grief and memory persist even as people move forward.

Hadas then transitions to the later scenes in "Hamlet," where the quick debriefing with Horatio, Osric's visit, and the fencing match occur. Despite the unfolding drama, the white petals remain, a silent testament to the earlier sorrow. These remnants are described as "still gleaming," suggesting that the memory of the lost persists, shining through the subsequent chaos and violence. This imagery underscores the idea that certain symbols and memories hold enduring significance, even amidst the passage of time and events.

The poem’s reference to Jocasta in Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex" further deepens the exploration of grief and memory. Jocasta’s offerings on the altar, intended to ensure wellbeing, remain even after the messenger delivers the devastating news of her suicide. The lingering offerings symbolize unfulfilled hopes and the persistence of past actions and emotions, mirroring the enduring presence of the white petals in "Hamlet."

Hadas’ use of theatrical props—rose petals and offerings—serves as a powerful metaphor for the lasting impact of grief and memory. These props, though seemingly insignificant in the grand narrative, hold profound meaning and continue to affect those who encounter them. They are physical embodiments of the characters’ emotions and experiences, bridging the gap between the past and the present.

The poem also touches on the idea of perception and understanding. The speaker notes that despite not fully grasping the dialogue, the visual symbolism of the petals was clear and impactful. This highlights the power of visual and symbolic elements in conveying emotions and themes, sometimes more effectively than words alone. The sharp eyes that discern the petals emphasize the importance of noticing and remembering these subtle yet significant details.

In conclusion, "Props" by Rachel Hadas skillfully intertwines the worlds of Shakespearean tragedy and Greek drama to explore themes of memory, grief, and the enduring nature of symbolic gestures. Through the lingering rose petals and Jocasta’s offerings, Hadas illustrates how certain symbols carry profound meaning, resonating long after the initial moment has passed. The poem serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact of loss and the ways in which memories and symbols continue to shape our experiences and perceptions.

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