Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

“Far Rockaway” is a poem by Delmore Schwartz, published in his 1941 collection “In Dreams Begin Responsibilities”. The poem reflects the memories of the speaker’s childhood summers spent in Far Rockaway, a beachside community in Queens, New York.

Explanation:

The poem is divided into three stanzas, each exploring a different aspect of the speaker's childhood memories. In the first stanza, the speaker describes the boardwalk, beach, and people of Far Rockaway. He recalls the sights and sounds of the boardwalk, including the vendors selling ice cream and hot dogs, and the “graceful girls” who walk along the boardwalk. He also remembers the beach itself, where the “brave swimmers” dive into the waves.

In the second stanza, the speaker reflects on his own childhood experiences in Far Rockaway. He remembers building sandcastles on the beach with his brother, and how they would create elaborate kingdoms that were soon washed away by the tide. He also recalls the pleasure of simply lying on the beach and feeling the sun on his skin.

In the final stanza, the speaker reflects on how these memories have stayed with him throughout his life. He acknowledges that he has experienced pain and sorrow, but that the memories of Far Rockaway have given him hope and comfort in times of trouble. The poem ends with the speaker saying that he would like to visit Far Rockaway again, but knows that the memories he has will stay with him regardless.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem consists of three stanzas of varying length, with no strict rhyme or meter.
• Imagery: The poem makes use of vivid, sensory descriptions to evoke the sights, sounds, and sensations of Far Rockaway.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is wistful and nostalgic, with the speaker looking back on his childhood with a mixture of fondness and sadness.

Conclusion:

“Far Rockaway” is a nostalgic poem that explores the power of memory to provide comfort and hope in difficult times. Through its vivid descriptions and wistful tone, the poem captures the essence of the speaker's childhood summers spent in Far Rockaway, and the lasting impact that those memories have had on his life.

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