Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "Philosophy," Howard Nemerov succinctly addresses the age-old debate between free will and determinism. Through his brief but potent lines, Nemerov critiques the philosophical stance that seemingly reconciles human freedom with necessity, highlighting the inherent tension in this reconciliation.

The poem opens with a cautionary tone: "When sages speak of the freedom of the will, / Watch out." This warning sets the stage for a critical examination of philosophical assertions about free will. By referring to "sages," Nemerov invokes the authority and wisdom traditionally associated with philosophers, yet he also signals a need for skepticism regarding their conclusions.

Nemerov continues, "for they're determined once and still / To find our freedom in Necessity." Here, he plays on the word "determined," suggesting a paradox where the philosophers' insistence on free will is itself driven by a deterministic mindset. This word choice cleverly encapsulates the irony of their argument: they are resolutely trying to locate freedom within the bounds of necessity, a concept typically associated with determinism and inevitability.

The closing lines, "Where the will alone, and nothing else, is free," offer a sharp critique of the philosophical attempt to isolate free will as an abstract concept detached from external influences. Nemerov suggests that such a definition of freedom is ultimately hollow, as it confines freedom to the realm of pure will, disconnected from the tangible, deterministic forces that shape our lives. By isolating free will in this manner, philosophers risk stripping it of its practical significance and reducing it to a theoretical construct devoid of real-world application.

Nemerov's poem is notable for its economy of language, packing a complex philosophical argument into just four lines. This brevity underscores the poet's ability to distill intricate ideas into a clear, impactful statement. The poem's structure, with its rhythmic and rhyming couplets, lends it a sense of authority and finality, reinforcing the critique of philosophical determinism.

Through "Philosophy," Howard Nemerov invites readers to reflect on the tension between free will and determinism, questioning the validity of attempts to reconcile these opposing concepts. His poem serves as a reminder that while philosophical discussions can offer valuable insights, they also risk oversimplifying or abstracting complex realities. By highlighting the paradoxes and potential pitfalls in these debates, Nemerov encourages a more nuanced and critical approach to understanding the nature of human freedom.

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