Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Marge Piercy's poem "Liars' Dice" delves into the intricate and often destructive nature of lies within relationships. Through vivid metaphors and powerful imagery, Piercy explores how lies serve as both barriers and weapons, creating distance and inflicting wounds between individuals.

The poem opens with the image of lies marching out "bravely between us to be exchanged, one for the other, spies traded at the neutral border." This metaphor suggests that lies are like soldiers or spies, sent out to negotiate and manipulate, creating a sense of strategic maneuvering in the interactions between the individuals. The use of "neutral border" implies a space where neither party holds the upper hand, a battleground of sorts where truths and untruths are bartered.

Piercy then likens memories to wrestlers: "Our memories are wrestlers, each trying to pin the other, for to touch earth or fact admits defeat." This comparison highlights the struggle for dominance and control over the narrative. The fear of admitting the truth, of "touching earth or fact," is portrayed as a sign of weakness or surrender, emphasizing how deeply entrenched and combative the relationship has become.

The poem categorizes lies into two main types: defensive and offensive. Defensive lies are those that deny involvement or knowledge: "I didn't do it, / wouldn't touch the stuff, I've never seen her before." These lies serve to protect the liar from blame or consequences. On the other hand, offensive lies are designed to hurt and provoke: "Others seek to scald, burrow their way inward, prick, draw blood, flee." These lies are described with aggressive, almost violent imagery, indicating their intent to cause pain and damage.

Piercy reveals the ultimate purpose of these lies: "But we lie for distance, / setting between us these fragile busy constructs all wire, papier mache, / little dancing robots / tutus and flashing lights." Here, lies are depicted as elaborate, delicate constructions, designed to create and maintain emotional distance. The imagery of "little dancing robots / tutus and flashing lights" evokes a sense of artificiality and superficiality, suggesting that the effort put into maintaining these lies surpasses the effort invested in genuine love and connection.

The poem concludes with a poignant reflection on the misplaced priorities within the relationship: "wrought with far more effort and art than we bothered to put into love." This line underscores the tragedy of the situation—the energy and creativity expended on deceit and maintaining facades are far greater than those devoted to nurturing love and intimacy.

"Liars' Dice" by Marge Piercy is a powerful exploration of the dynamics of deception within relationships. Through its rich metaphors and striking imagery, the poem captures the complex interplay of lies, memories, and emotional distance, ultimately revealing the profound impact of dishonesty on human connections.

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