Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov's "It Should Be Visible" is a powerful commentary on the contrast between the Earth's serene appearance from space and the harsh realities of human conflict and environmental destruction. Through vivid imagery and stark contrasts, Levertov critiques the hidden costs of war and the exploitation of the planet’s resources for destructive purposes.

The poem opens with a hypothetical vision: "If from Space not only sapphire continents, swirling oceans, were visible, but the wars—like bonfires, wildfires, forest conflagrations, flame and smoky smoulder." This imagery suggests that if the destructive events on Earth were as visible from space as its natural beauty, the planet would appear drastically different. The mention of "sapphire continents" and "swirling oceans" evokes the Earth’s natural splendor, a sharp contrast to the imagery of "bonfires, wildfires, forest conflagrations," which symbolize the widespread devastation caused by human conflicts.

Levertov continues with the metaphor of the Earth as a "bitter pomander ball bristling with poison cloves," implying that the beauty of the planet is marred by the poisonous effects of war. The use of "poison cloves" suggests that these conflicts are not only pervasive but also deeply embedded within the planet, much like the cloves in a pomander.

The poem then highlights the economic and industrial aspects of war: "And each war fuelled with weapons: it should be visible that great sums of money have been exchanged, great profits made, workers gainfully employed to construct destruction, national economies distorted." Levertov critiques the immense financial and labor investments made to perpetuate conflict, pointing out the irony and tragedy of economies thriving on the creation of instruments of death and destruction. This critique underscores the distortion of priorities, where resources that could promote life and joy are instead funneled into perpetuating violence and suffering.

Levertov reflects on the Earth’s natural beauty and its inherent potential for life: "this one planet which, seen from outside its transparent tender shell, is so serene, so fortunate, with its water, air and myriad forms of 'life that wants to live.'" This line emphasizes the preciousness and fragility of Earth, highlighting the contrast between its outward appearance of tranquility and the internal turmoil caused by human actions. The phrase "life that wants to live" underscores the natural inclination of all living beings towards survival and thriving, which is continually undermined by conflict.

The poem concludes with a stark and urgent statement: "It should be visible that this bluegreen globe suffers a canker which is devouring it." The word "canker" evokes an image of a disease or infestation slowly destroying the planet from within. This final line serves as a call to awareness, urging readers to recognize the hidden yet pervasive impact of war and environmental degradation on the planet's health and future.

In summary, "It Should Be Visible" by Denise Levertov is a poignant and thought-provoking poem that contrasts the Earth's natural beauty with the destructive impact of human conflict and exploitation. Through vivid imagery and critical commentary, Levertov urges readers to acknowledge the true cost of war and the importance of protecting the planet's fragile ecosystem. The poem serves as a powerful reminder of the need for greater visibility and awareness of the destructive forces at work, and a call to action to preserve the Earth for future generations.

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