it lay in my palm soft and trembled
as a new bird and i thought about
authority and how it always insisted
on itself, how it was master
of the man, how it measured him, never
was ignored or denied, and how it promised
there would be sweetness if it was obeyed
just like the saints do, like the angels
and i opened the window and held out my
uncupped hand; i swear to god
i thought it could fly
Birdie as symbol and hope in deep ocean...a novice or the departed body uncupped hand something
The imagery of the new bird trembling in your palm, and the contemplation of authority and obedience, struck a chord within me. Your ability to convey such complex emotions and thoughts in such a straightforward manner is truly admirable.
THREE: The act of opening the window and extending an uncupped hand suggests a desire for freedom or release from this authority. The poem subtly questions the nature of power and the choices we make in response
TWO: This object symbolizes authority, which always insists on itself, measures individuals, and promises sweetness if obeyed—much like saints or angels..
ONE: In this poem the theme is about authority and its impact. The poem describes a moment when the poetess holds something soft and trembling in her palm, akin to a new bird.
I've got one of these and have to admit that Clifton has captured its essence, with great economy of language. It's selfish and tends to make false promises. This eloquent and elegant poem cuts it effectively down to size.
This poem has not been translated into any other language yet.
I would like to translate this poem
Way deep. chilling... odd