A Critique of the Poem: Shark

sunday post-

During one of my trips in December 2023 to discuss my book, “I will call you once I arrive in Kyiv”. I met H.D.He was looking for my English books. We talked not about the story but about poetry. I am still trying to pinpoint where our discussion started, but I ended up offering to send him my English poems. His feedback on my poetry gave me more confidence to continue. The last poem I sent him is “shark”. I'm publishing it here for those who have read this poem or heard it in the American Poets' group.

shark

written by H.D

"Shark" a haunting poem, transcends conventional boundaries to immerse readers in a surreal dreamscape fraught with allegorical significance, religious imagery, and profound existential themes. This review endeavors to dissect and analyze the poem's intricate layers, delving into its ironies, poetic devices, and the interplay between tradition and innovation. Additionally, suggestions for enriching the poem's thematic depth and emotional resonance will be offered.

"Shark" beckons readers into a world where reality blurs with the surreal, and the subconscious unfurls its enigmatic tapestry. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, the poem explores themes of existential angst, spiritual disillusionment, and the search for meaning amidst chaos. This review embarks on a journey to unravel the depths of this captivating piece, examining its allegories, religious references, and poetic devices while contemplating avenues for further enrichment.

At its core, "Shark" operates as a tapestry of allegory, weaving together disparate threads of symbolism to evoke profound existential truths. The poem's central metaphor—the shark—emerges as a primal force of destruction and temptation, representing the existential threats that assail the human psyche. Like the biblical Leviathan or the primordial chaos of myth, the shark embodies the relentless march of time and the insatiable hunger of the soul.

Moreover, the poem abounds with religious imagery, drawing parallels between the protagonist's journey and various biblical motifs. The figure of the man on the cross, for instance, serves as a poignant reminder of spiritual suffering and redemption, while the Garden of Eden evokes themes of innocence lost and the perpetual cycle of sin and repentance. Through these religious references, the poem invites readers to contemplate the timeless struggle between good and evil, faith and doubt, salvation and damnation.

Central to the poem's evocative power are its ironies and poetic devices, which imbue the narrative with a sense of depth and complexity. The juxtaposition of the protagonist's wounded body and soul underscores the fragility of human existence, highlighting the disconnect between physical and spiritual suffering. Likewise, the dream-within-a-nightmare structure adds layers of ambiguity and unreality, blurring the boundaries between the conscious and unconscious mind.

Furthermore, the poem's use of imagery—such as the rolling apple and the bleeding figure on the cross—creates a vivid tableau of existential angst and spiritual yearning. Through these poetic devices, "Shark" transcends mere description, evoking a visceral response that resonates with readers long after the final stanza.

While "Shark" draws upon traditional themes and religious motifs, it also introduces innovative elements that distinguish it from conventional poetry. The poem's surreal imagery and nonlinear narrative structure challenge traditional notions of storytelling, inviting readers to embark on a journey of introspection and self-discovery. Moreover, its exploration of gender dynamics and the marginalization of female voices adds a contemporary relevance to its timeless themes, offering a fresh perspective on age-old questions of identity and agency.

Suggestions for Enrichment:

Despite its considerable merits, "Shark" could benefit from further exploration and development. One potential avenue for enrichment lies in expanding the poem's narrative scope, delving deeper into the protagonist's inner turmoil and existential quest. Additionally, incorporating diverse cultural perspectives and mythological motifs could lend the poem greater depth and resonance, enriching its thematic complexity and emotional resonance.