Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Two Times" by Robert Creeley is a compact yet evocative poem that delves into themes of anticipation, decision-making, and the intimate connection between action and consequence. Through its two distinct parts, the poem captures moments of suspense and contemplation, reflecting on the precipice of choice and the weight of moments that demand action.

1. The first section of the poem focuses on a moment of hesitation and anticipation. "It takes so long to look down," suggests a pause before a significant decision or action, highlighting the tension between the desire to act and the fear of potential outcomes. This hesitation is rooted in the uncertainty of what follows—the "thinking it would then and there either shoot up or else drop off" encapsulates the binary nature of many decisions, where outcomes can lead to drastic differences, symbolized by the stark contrast between ascending ("shoot up") and descending ("drop off"). This part of the poem reflects the human tendency to dwell on the precipice of decision, caught between hope for elevation and fear of decline.

2. The second section distills the essence of decision into a vivid image: "One hand on the trigger one hand on the hand." This portrayal of hands—one poised to act and the other, presumably, offering guidance or restraint—captures the internal conflict and complexity of making a choice. The trigger symbolizes the potential for action, a mechanism that, once engaged, will irrevocably change the course of events. The second hand on the first can be interpreted as an attempt to steady oneself, to ensure precision in the moment of action, or as a metaphor for the influence of external forces or internal conscience on one’s decisions. This duality emphasizes the tension between autonomy and influence, between the solitary nature of decision-making and the interconnectedness of human experience.

"Two Times" is characteristic of Creeley’s minimalist style, employing sparse language to explore profound psychological and existential themes. The poem invites readers to reflect on the moments of decision that punctuate their lives, the balance between action and restraint, and the deep sense of responsibility that accompanies the power to change one’s course. Through its contemplation of these universal experiences, "Two Times" underscores the complexity of choice and the indelible impact of our actions on ourselves and others.