Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Charles Olson’s "Shang Dynasty Oracle Bone 2 Say" encapsulates his characteristic ability to distill profound commentary into a terse, enigmatic line. The poem draws inspiration from the cryptic and sacred inscriptions found on ancient Shang dynasty oracle bones, where questions were inscribed and interpreted through cracks caused by heat. Olson channels this ancient medium into a modern poetic reflection on humanity, individuality, and the disruptive potential of the self.

The opening phrase, "neat person," appears deceptively straightforward, suggesting an individual with a composed, orderly, or polished demeanor. However, Olson’s invocation of such a "neat" figure becomes ironic in the context of the command that follows: "make more uproar possible." The contrast between the tidy surface implied by "neat person" and the chaotic force of "uproar" introduces a tension that drives the poem. Olson seems to critique the expectation of restraint or conformity, proposing instead that individuals harness their potential for disruption.

The use of "uproar" evokes not only literal noise or commotion but also a broader destabilization—of norms, structures, or established orders. The imperative to "make more uproar possible" aligns with Olson’s broader poetics, which champion dynamic energy and resistance to stasis. Here, the "neat person" becomes both a figure of potential and an agent of transformation, challenging the very constraints that define their identity.

The title connects the poem to the Shang dynasty oracle bones, grounding Olson’s modernist concerns in an ancient context. Oracle bones were used to divine the future or seek guidance, and their inscriptions often reflected existential or practical queries. By framing his poem as an oracle, Olson imbues it with a sense of prophecy or urgency, suggesting that the call for "uproar" is not just personal but universal.

Olson’s sparse language mirrors the concise inscriptions of the oracle bones, where economy of expression was paramount. The poem’s brevity underscores its intensity, inviting multiple interpretations while resisting closure. In its stark simplicity, "Shang Dynasty Oracle Bone 2 Say" captures the essence of Olson’s poetic philosophy: the belief in poetry as an active, participatory force that compels both writer and reader to confront and engage with the complexities of existence.

Ultimately, the poem is a call to action. It urges individuals to transcend the limitations of decorum or "neatness" and embrace their capacity to disrupt, to question, and to create. By invoking the ancient oracle bones, Olson situates this modern imperative within a timeless tradition of seeking knowledge, challenging fate, and confronting the unknown. In this way, the poem becomes both a reflection on human history and a guide for navigating the present.

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