Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Upon Learning... A Town Exists in Virginia Called Upperville" by John Updike is a whimsical and cleverly written poem that plays on the notion of "up"-ness, both literally and metaphorically, inspired by the town's name, Upperville. Updike uses the concept of elevation in various forms to create a light-hearted and imaginative portrait of this ideally "uplifted" community.

The poem begins with a playful depiction of the town's residents—the "upper crust"—who embody the spirit of Upperville by maintaining a jovial attitude from "dawn to dusk" with phrases like "Bottoms up!" and "Ups-a-daisy, dear!" These expressions, laden with "up" connotations, set the tone for a town characterized by cheerfulness and high spirits. The narrator expresses a desire to be part of this community, stating, "I want to live in Upperville," drawn by the appealing portrayal of its atmosphere.

The theme of upwardness continues as Updike humorously suggests that even the educational curriculum in Upperville aligns with its thematic focus on ascension: children study "The Rise of Silas Lapham," a novel literally about social ascent, and learn why "gravitation has been banned." This hyperbolic idea that gravity—something that pulls down—has been banned, further emphasizes the town’s commitment to all things uplifting and upward.

The poem vividly describes the natural setting of Upperville, employing images of "ruddy uplands, lofty trees, Upsurging streams, and towering dogs." This description not only adheres to the upward motif but also paints a picture of a place bursting with vibrant, ascending life. Updike’s choice to mention "towering dogs" adds a touch of humor and whimsy, reinforcing the playful tone of the poem.

Updike also ensures to negate any notion of the downward or depressive, stating, "There are no valleys, dumps, or bogs. Depression never dares intrude / Upon thy sweet upswinging mood." By explicitly excluding features associated with lowliness or melancholy, he crafts an idealized town where spirits are perpetually high and the landscape itself defies downheartedness.

In the concluding stanza, the speaker reveals a personal longing for such an uplifted existence: "Downcast, long-fallen, let me go / To where the cattle never low." This line is poignant, suggesting the speaker's own feelings of dejection in contrast to Upperville’s perpetual cheer. The poem ends with a heartfelt appeal to be part of Upperville, "And be uplifted all day long / Fair Upperville, accept my song." The plea to be accepted into such a blissful community underscores a universal desire for belonging and happiness.

"Upon Learning... A Town Exists in Virginia Called Upperville" by John Updike is an engaging, imaginative exploration of a place defined by its positivity and upward movement. Through playful language and vivid imagery, Updike not only creates a charming poetic tribute to Upperville but also reflects on the human yearning for joy and elevation in life.

POEM TEXT: https://archives.newyorker.com/newyorker/1961-05-20/flipbook/134/

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