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Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

COMMON WISDOM, by             Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography

Howard Nemerov’s poem "Common Wisdom" delivers a succinct and poignant reflection on the nature of marriage, exploring the endurance and ultimate companionship that define a lasting partnership. Through its brevity and sharp imagery, the poem encapsulates the core of what is often considered a "good" marriage, emphasizing resilience and the profound bond that endures until death.

The poem opens with a straightforward assertion: "Their marriage is a good one. In our eyes." This line sets the tone for a collective perspective on marriage, suggesting that the evaluation comes from societal or communal standards. The phrase "In our eyes" implies a shared understanding or consensus about what constitutes a successful marriage.

Nemerov then poses the central question: "What makes a marriage good?" This rhetorical question invites the reader to contemplate the criteria by which a marriage is judged. The answer provided—"Well, that the tether / Fray but not break, and that they stay together"—highlights the resilience and durability of the marital bond. The metaphor of the tether suggests a connection that, despite wear and strain, remains intact. This imagery conveys the idea that a good marriage is not one devoid of challenges or conflicts but one where the couple endures and remains united despite them.

The concluding line, "One should be watching while the other dies," introduces a stark and sobering image. This line encapsulates the ultimate testament to a marriage’s strength and depth: the enduring presence of one partner until the very end of the other's life. It speaks to the commitment and companionship that define a true partnership, where the bond persists through life's final moments.

Nemerov's choice of words and the structure of the poem convey a profound simplicity, reflecting on the fundamental aspects of marital life. The poem’s brevity underscores the distilled wisdom it imparts, focusing on the essential qualities of endurance, loyalty, and presence.

In "Common Wisdom," Howard Nemerov captures the essence of what makes a marriage enduring and meaningful. Through the metaphor of a fraying yet unbroken tether and the poignant image of one partner watching over the other at the end of life, the poem offers a deep and resonant reflection on the nature of true companionship. It invites readers to consider the resilience and steadfastness required for a lasting relationship, celebrating the quiet strength that sustains a marriage through all of life's trials.


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