Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Denise Levertov's "Once Only" reflects on the fleeting nature of life's joyous and marvelous moments, urging an acceptance of their uniqueness and the necessity of embracing the present. Through a contemplative tone and rich imagery, the poem underscores the idea that each significant experience is a singular occurrence, not to be repeated or revisited in the same form.

The poem begins with a reflection on past experiences: "All which, because it was flame and song and granted us joy, we thought we'd do, be, revisit, turns out to have been what it was that once, only." Here, Levertov evokes the imagery of "flame and song" to symbolize the vibrancy and joy of past moments. These moments were so impactful that there was a belief they could be repeated or revisited. However, the poet asserts that these events were unique to their time and place—"what it was that once, only."

Levertov continues by emphasizing the sequential nature of life's significant moments: "every initiation a series, a build-up: the marvelous did happen in our lives, our stories are not drab with its absence." The phrase "every initiation a series, a build-up" suggests that each remarkable event in life is part of a progression, leading to and building upon one another. The poet reassures that these marvelous occurrences did indeed happen, enriching their lives and ensuring their stories are not devoid of wonder.

The poem then delivers a crucial message: "but don't expect now to return for more. Whatever more there will be will be unique as those were unique." Levertov cautions against the expectation of recreating past joys. Instead, she emphasizes that future experiences will be unique in their own right, distinct from those that came before. This perspective encourages an openness to new experiences without the burden of comparison to the past.

Finally, Levertov urges an embrace of the present moment: "Try to acknowledge the next / song in its body-halo of flames as utterly present, as now or never." The "next song in its body-halo of flames" symbolizes the upcoming unique experiences, characterized by their own intensity and beauty. The poet advises recognizing these moments as they occur, fully appreciating their presence as immediate and singular—"as now or never."

In summary, "Once Only" by Denise Levertov is a reflective poem that highlights the transient nature of life's joyous and extraordinary moments. Through vivid imagery and a contemplative tone, Levertov encourages an acceptance of the uniqueness of each experience and the importance of embracing the present. The poem serves as a reminder to cherish the singularity of each moment and to remain open to the new and unique experiences life has to offer.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...