Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Mary Oliver's poem “Return” captures a dramatic and transformative journey, drawing upon mythological imagery to explore themes of heroism, love, and the realization of one’s own humanity. The narrative echoes the myth of Theseus and the Minotaur, using the labyrinth and the shining thread as central symbols in a story of personal struggle and redemption.

The poem opens with a powerful statement of commitment: “The deed took all my heart. / I did not think of you, / Not till the thing was done.” These lines introduce a protagonist entirely focused on a singular, consuming task, one that requires complete dedication. The use of “deed” suggests a significant, potentially violent act, and the absence of thought for another person underscores the intensity and isolation of the task.

Following the completion of the deed, there is a noticeable shift: “I put my sword away, / And then no more the cold / And perfect fury ran / Along my narrow bones.” The imagery of putting the sword away and the cessation of fury conveys a return to a more human, less driven state. The description of fury as “cold” and “perfect” emphasizes the almost mechanical detachment required for the task.

The setting of the confrontation is revealed through haunting descriptions: “And then no more the black / And dripping corridors / Held anywhere the shape / That I had come to slay.” The corridors, black and dripping, evoke a nightmarish environment, reinforcing the danger and darkness the protagonist faced. The absence of the shape to be slain signifies the completion of the mission.

In a moment of reflection, the protagonist observes the surroundings: “I saw in the cave’s belly / The dark and clotted webs, / The green and sucking pools, / The rank and crumbling walls, / The maze of passages.” These visceral images highlight the grotesque and decayed nature of the labyrinth, a stark contrast to the earlier focus on the hunt. The labyrinth itself becomes a symbol of the inner turmoil and complexity faced by the protagonist.

The shift in thought to “the far earth, / Of the spring sun / And the slow wind, / And a young girl” introduces a moment of yearning for life outside the labyrinth. This recollection of simple, life-affirming images symbolizes a longing for normalcy and connection, contrasting sharply with the earlier singular focus on the deed.

The protagonist then acknowledges the significance of the thread: “And I looked then / At the white thread. / Hunting the minotaur I was no common man / And had no need of love.” The thread, a symbol of guidance and connection, is recognized only after the task is done. The assertion of being “no common man” and having “no need of love” reflects a past mindset of solitary heroism, devoid of emotional connection.

As the protagonist begins the return journey, the thread becomes essential: “I trailed the shining thread / Behind me, for a vow, / And did not think of you. / It lay there, like a sign, / Coiled on the bull’s great hoof / And back into the world.” The thread, coiled on the Minotaur’s hoof, symbolizes the connection between the act of heroism and the path back to humanity. The protagonist’s weariness and emotional release upon touching the thread—“Half blind with weariness / I touched the thread and wept”—highlight the profound recognition of vulnerability and dependence on this guiding connection.

The final stanzas depict the arduous return through the labyrinth: “And I turned then / With the white spool / Through the cold rocks, / Through the black rocks, / Through the long webs, / And the mist fell, / And the webs clung, / And the rocks tumbled, / And the earth shook.” This passage describes a perilous journey, emphasizing the continued challenges faced even after the central deed is accomplished.

The poem concludes with a powerful affirmation: “And the thread held.” This simple, resolute statement signifies the enduring strength and reliability of the thread, symbolizing hope, guidance, and the promise of return to a more human, connected state.

“Return” by Mary Oliver is a profound exploration of the hero’s journey, imbued with mythological resonance and rich imagery. Through the protagonist’s physical and emotional trials, Oliver delves into themes of isolation, duty, and the eventual rediscovery of humanity and connection. The shining thread serves as a poignant symbol of guidance, hope, and the enduring power of love and connection, even in the darkest of times.

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