Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "On Certain Wits (Amused ... Over Barnett Newman's Paintings)," Howard Nemerov addresses the reactions of critics and audiences to the minimalist art of Barnett Newman, juxtaposing these reactions with biblical events to underscore the disparity between substance and style, and the often superficial nature of aesthetic judgments.

The poem opens by recalling the amusement some individuals expressed over the simplicity of Newman's paintings displayed at Bennington College in May 1958. This initial setting provides the contemporary context for Nemerov's critique, highlighting the bewilderment and derision that minimalist art often evokes among certain observers.

Nemerov then draws a parallel to the biblical figure Moses, who, as recounted in the Book of Exodus, struck a rock with his staff to produce water for the Israelites. This miracle was essential for their survival, yet the poem humorously notes that "some of the people were annoyed with Moses / And said he should have used a fancier stick." This absurd criticism underscores the poem's central theme: the tendency of people to focus on superficial aspects rather than the profound impact or underlying message.

The poem continues with the story of Elijah on Mount Carmel, who successfully brought rain in a contest against the prophets of Baal, whose elaborate rituals failed to produce results. Here, Nemerov points out that "some of the people said that the rituals of the prophets of Baal / Were aesthetically significant, while Elijah's were very plain." This comparison further emphasizes the poem's critique of valuing form over function, and the misplaced appreciation for elaborate but ineffective efforts over simpler, more effective actions.

By invoking these biblical narratives, Nemerov elevates the discussion of art criticism to a broader examination of human nature and societal values. The miracles performed by Moses and Elijah were significant not because of their appearance but because of their substance and the vital needs they addressed. Similarly, Barnett Newman's minimalist paintings, though simple in form, carry a deeper meaning and artistic integrity that some critics fail to appreciate due to their preoccupation with aesthetics.

The poem's structure, with its straightforward and almost anecdotal recounting of these stories, reinforces its message. Nemerov's language is clear and unadorned, mirroring the simplicity he defends in Newman's work. The humor and irony embedded in the poem serve to highlight the absurdity of the criticisms and to invite the reader to reconsider the criteria by which art and actions are judged.

In "On Certain Wits (Amused ... Over Barnett Newman's Paintings)," Howard Nemerov effectively critiques the superficial judgments often levied against minimalist art by drawing analogies to biblical events where significant, life-saving actions were undervalued due to their plain execution. The poem invites readers to look beyond the surface and to appreciate the deeper significance and impact of both art and actions, challenging the tendency to prioritize style over substance. Through his clever use of irony and historical context, Nemerov encourages a more thoughtful and nuanced approach to evaluating art and human endeavors.

Copyright (c) 2025 PoetryExplorer

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...