Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Epigram: 2. Lucilius" by Howard Nemerov is a brief, witty poem that engages with the ideas of poetic inspiration and the role of memory in the creation of art. The poem uses humor and irony to comment on the nature of poetic endeavor and the relationship between the poet and his sources of inspiration.

The poem opens with a reference to Lucilius, a Roman satirist known for his didactic style. Nemerov writes, "Lucilius the poet has informed me, / Defending his somewhat pedantic songs," setting the stage for a light-hearted critique. The use of "pedantic" suggests that Lucilius's poetry might be overly concerned with scholarly details or instructional content, which contrasts with the more spontaneous or emotionally driven aspects of poetic creation.

Lucilius's defense centers on the claim that "Memory is the Mother of the Muses." This phrase highlights the classical belief that the Muses, goddesses of inspiration in Greek mythology, draw their power from memory. By invoking this idea, Lucilius aligns his work with a respected tradition, suggesting that his detailed, memory-based approach to poetry is valid and valuable.

Nemerov's response to Lucilius's assertion is both playful and cutting: "May he continue making love to the mother." This line employs a double entendre, using "making love" to simultaneously refer to the act of creating poetry (inspired by memory) and to mock Lucilius's perhaps overly earnest or obsessive relationship with his source of inspiration. The phrase can be seen as a blessing, wishing Lucilius continued success in his poetic endeavors, but it also carries a hint of sarcasm, implying that Lucilius's approach might be too reverent or constrained by his reliance on memory.

Overall, "Epigram: 2. Lucilius" is a succinct and clever poem that uses humor and classical references to explore the relationship between memory and poetic creation. Nemerov's playful critique of Lucilius's method highlights the tension between different approaches to poetry—one that is meticulous and memory-based versus one that might embrace more spontaneity and emotional depth. The poem invites readers to consider the varied sources of inspiration for art and the ways in which poets interact with these influences.

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