Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Long Approach" is a poem by Maxine W. Kumin that was first published in her collection "Where I Live: New & Selected Poems 1990-2010" in 2010.

Explanation:

The poem is about the speaker's experience of approaching a horse that is grazing in a field. The speaker describes the beauty and power of the horse, as well as the sense of trepidation and awe that they feel in its presence. The poem also explores the ways in which the speaker and the horse are connected, and the sense of mutual respect and understanding that exists between them.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with no set rhyme scheme or meter. The poem consists of a single stanza of 10 lines.
• Imagery: The poem contains rich visual imagery that evokes the world of the horse and the natural world, as well as sensory imagery that describes the feeling of approaching the horse.
• Personification: The speaker personifies the horse, describing its movements and appearance in human terms and creating a sense of connection between the horse and the speaker.
• Theme: The poem explores the theme of human-animal relationships and the emotional connections that can form between humans and other species.

Conclusion:

"Long Approach" is a beautiful and evocative poem that captures the sense of awe and wonder that can be inspired by the natural world. The poem's use of vivid imagery, personification, and sensory language creates a sense of intimacy and connection between the reader and the horse, while its underlying theme of human-animal relationships underscores the importance of empathy and respect in our interactions with other species.

Poem Snippet:

"I step into the field

careful not to jangle my keys,

catch him swinging round

his sceptered head, wild-eyed”

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