Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Abraham Lincoln," by Robert Lowell, is a contemplative and somewhat accusatory poem that delves into the complexities of Lincoln's character and legacy, particularly focusing on the paradoxes inherent in his leadership during the American Civil War. The poem explores themes of war, politics, morality, and the burdens of leadership, offering a nuanced portrait of Lincoln as a figure of immense moral complexity.

The poem begins with a forceful, almost intrusive, image: "All day I bang and bang at you in thought, as if I had the license of your wife...." This line conveys an intense, persistent scrutiny of Lincoln, suggesting an intimate, relentless examination of his thoughts and actions, similar to the intimate access a spouse might have. The repetition of "bang and bang" emphasizes the relentlessness of this contemplation, reflecting perhaps the poet's struggle to understand or reconcile Lincoln's actions and decisions.

Lowell then poses a provocative question that juxtaposes war and politics: "If War is the continuation of politics—is politics the discontinuation of murder?" This rhetorical question challenges the conventional understanding of politics and war, suggesting a cynical view that politics, often seen as a means of avoiding conflict, may merely be another form of violence or coercion. It underscores the moral ambiguities and ethical dilemmas faced by leaders like Lincoln, who had to navigate the horrors of war and the murky waters of political decision-making.

The poem acknowledges Lincoln's compassion and empathy, noting that he "may have loved underdogs and even mankind," distinguishing him from other leaders. However, this recognition is tempered by the reality of his presidency during a time of immense national strife. Lowell calls Lincoln "our one genius in politics," highlighting his unique abilities and the respect he commanded. The phrase "who followed the bull to the altar... to death in unity" suggests Lincoln's sacrificial role in leading the nation through the Civil War, a conflict that demanded tremendous personal and national sacrifices to preserve the Union.

The poem's tone shifts with the repeated exclamation, "J'accuse, j'accuse, j'accuse, j'accuse, j'accuse!" This French phrase, meaning "I accuse," famously used by Émile Zola in the Dreyfus Affair, is employed here to confront and challenge Lincoln's decisions and actions. It reflects a sense of moral outrage or questioning, perhaps regarding the costs of war, the treatment of deserters, or the compromises made in the name of politics. The command to "Say it in American" emphasizes the need for plain, direct accountability and reflection on these issues within the context of American values and history.

Lowell further complicates the portrayal of Lincoln with the question, "Who shot the deserters?" This line may reference the controversial practice of executing deserters during the Civil War, a harsh reality that contrasts with the idealized image of Lincoln as a compassionate leader. It points to the difficult and often brutal decisions leaders must make, even when such decisions may conflict with their personal values or public image.

The poem concludes with a vivid, almost apocalyptic image: "Winter blows sparks in the face of the new God, who breathes-in fire and dies with cooling faith, as the firebrand turns black in the black hand, and the squealing pig darts sidewise from his foot." This passage is rich with symbolism. The "new God" could represent the ideals or the new nation struggling to be born from the Civil War's destruction. The imagery of "breath[ing]-in fire and dying with cooling faith" suggests a loss of fervor or disillusionment, possibly reflecting the nation's or Lincoln's own waning faith amidst the war's horrors. The firebrand turning black symbolizes the extinguishing of fiery passion or idealism, while the "squealing pig" may represent the chaos and unpredictability of life and politics, evading control or simple moral judgments.

"Abraham Lincoln" by Robert Lowell is a complex, multi-layered poem that grapples with the contradictions and challenges of Lincoln's leadership. It acknowledges his unique moral compass and political genius while also confronting the harsh realities and ethical ambiguities of his presidency. The poem leaves readers with a sense of the enduring complexity of Lincoln's legacy and the difficult moral terrain navigated by those in power.

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