Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Public Hug" by Robert Myles Hershon is a candid and affectionate exploration of human connection, physical touch, and the breaking of societal norms around expressions of affection. Through a simple narrative of encountering an old friend and the reactions of his coworkers, Hershon delves into broader themes of intimacy, friendship, and the physical manifestations of emotional bonds.

The poem opens in a seemingly mundane setting—a restaurant exit—yet this backdrop serves as the stage for a significant emotional exchange. The act of hugging an old friend becomes a focal point for examining societal discomfort with public displays of affection, especially between men. The coworkers' reactions highlight a cultural hesitance or taboo surrounding men expressing affection physically, prompting the speaker to reflect on and defend his own comfort with and preference for physical touch.

Hershon's declaration, "listen: i hug men," is both a personal affirmation and a challenge to societal norms. It's a straightforward yet powerful statement of his rejection of those unwritten rules that dictate how affection should be shown. The speaker embraces not just men, but women, children, animals, and even inanimate objects, underscoring the universality and importance of touch as a form of connection and communication.

The poem also touches on the inherent risks of physical affection, as illustrated by the accident with his friend's glasses. This incident serves as a metaphor for the vulnerabilities and uncertainties involved in physical and emotional closeness. Yet, the speaker accepts these risks as a necessary part of human interaction, emphasizing the value of touch over the potential for mishap.

"Public Hug" ultimately celebrates warmth, openness, and the human need for physical connection. Hershon uses his personal stance on hugging as a lens through which to critique societal discomfort with affection, particularly among men, while advocating for a more open and tactile expression of friendship and love. Through his candid tone and direct language, Hershon invites readers to reconsider their own views on affection and to perhaps embrace a warmer, more physically expressive approach to relationships

POEM TEXT: https://www.google.com/books/edition/Yellow_Shoe_Poets/2D6aqhb651oC?q=BACA+%22MEN+LATE+AT+NIGHT+COOK+COFFEE+IN+RUSTY+CANS%22&gbpv=1&bsq=PUBLIC%20HUG#f=false

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