Roethke's voice is a rather hit-and-miss affair for me.

At certain moments, it manages to connect with me on a deeply profound level, as is the case with the following lines:
\\"... Desolation in immaculate public places,/ Lonely reception room, lavatory, switchboard,/ The unalterable pathos of basin and pitcher,/...\\" These lines are from \\"Dolor\\", which is part of the 1948 collection, \\"The Lost Son and Other Poems.\\"

Here, there is a Sylvia Plath-like ability to penetrate the surface and reveal the hidden depths. It's as if Roethke is conjuring up a rich tapestry of deep American iconography. The description of desolation in seemingly pristine public spaces, the lonely reception room, the utilitarian lavatory and switchboard, and the unchanging pathos of the basin and pitcher all combine to create a powerful and evocative image.

It makes one stop and think about the hidden emotions and meanings that lie beneath the ordinary and the mundane.

This is an absolute must-have for your poetry shelf.

Some of his poems are centered around the concept of circles, and they seem to spin in circles as you read them.

His unique and sparing use of words creates a sense of wonder and invites exploration and discovery.

I fell in love with Roethke's poetry from the very first poem I read of his.

His works have a certain charm and depth that draw you in and keep you engaged.

Each line is carefully crafted, and every word has a purpose.

Reading his poetry is like embarking on a journey of the mind and spirit.

It allows you to see the world from a different perspective and to experience emotions in a profound way.

So, take the time to read, savor, and enjoy Roethke's poetry.

Let his words transport you to a place of beauty and inspiration.

You won't be disappointed.

I have a deep affection for Roethke's earlier naturalistic work. It didn't immediately draw me in, but after spending some time with it, I truly believe that The Open House contains some of his finest creations. His later work also features some truly remarkable observational lines that delve into social dynamics and growth. In a sense, it's as if he's using the same perceptive lens to examine human behavior. For example, his line "so much of adolescence is an ill-defined dying / an intolerable waiting" is both profound and evocative.

However, some of the smaller nature poems did blend together for me, perhaps due to the fact that I read them all in rapid succession. Additionally, there are certain weaker aspects of his writing that are evident here. For instance, when he attempts to write about women, he often resorts to tired and uninteresting tropes. Nevertheless, I am still extremely glad to have become familiar with his body of work. It has provided me with valuable insights and a deeper appreciation for the power of poetry.

Roethke was recommended to me by a dear friend and professor during my college days.

I have always had a profound affection for his slow-burn poetry.

Interestingly, someone in another review described it as "swampy," which I find to be a rather appropriate and evocative description.

As fate would have it, I later discovered that he actually taught poetry at my school back in the 1950's.

This realization added an extra layer of significance and connection to my appreciation of his work.

It made me wonder about the students who had the privilege of learning from him during that time, and how his teachings might have influenced their own understanding and创作 of poetry.

Roethke's poetry continues to resonate with me, and I look forward to delving deeper into his body of work and uncovering the hidden gems and meanings within.

Perhaps one day, I will be able to share my own interpretations and insights with others, just as my friend and professor did when they introduced me to this remarkable poet.

New Fav

In today's fast-paced world, we are constantly on the lookout for new things that can bring us joy and excitement. A new favorite can emerge in various aspects of our lives, whether it's a new hobby, a favorite food, or a beloved item.

Discovering a new fav often feels like a thrilling adventure. It can open up a whole new world of possibilities and experiences. For example, if you take up a new hobby like painting, you might find yourself expressing your creativity in ways you never thought possible.

A new favorite food can also be a source of great pleasure. Tasting a delicious dish that you've never had before can tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Similarly, finding a new beloved item, such as a piece of clothing or a gadget, can make you feel special and unique. It can become a part of your identity and bring you a sense of comfort and satisfaction.

In conclusion, new favs have the power to enhance our lives and bring us happiness. So, keep your eyes and ears open, and don't be afraid to explore new things. You never know when you might discover your next favorite!

I'd like to own this!

This simple statement holds within it a world of desires and aspirations. The object of my longing could be anything - a beautiful piece of jewelry, a luxurious car, a dream house, or perhaps a unique experience. Owning something gives us a sense of achievement and satisfaction. It makes us feel special and sets us apart from others. When we own something, we have the power to use it, enjoy it, and make it a part of our lives. It becomes a symbol of our identity and a source of pride. Whether it's a material possession or an intangible asset, the desire to own it drives us to work harder, save more, and pursue our goals. So, the next time you find yourself saying "I'd like to own this!", take a moment to think about what it really means to you and what steps you can take to make it a reality.

Some poems are truly brilliant, captivating the reader with their beauty and depth. They seem to effortlessly transport us to another world, filled with vivid imagery and powerful emotions.

On the other hand, there are those poems that are rather tedious, lacking in inspiration and failing to engage the reader.

The precise description and attention to natural and emotional detail in some poems make them feel quite profound. However, I find myself questioning whether they truly are.

The biggest deficit in these works, in my opinion, is their egocentric nature. It's as if, in many of these poems, the world and all of its people, history, events, struggles, and dreams simply do not exist.

While some of these poems may be tempting and, at times, even convincing, they just don't go all the way for me. They leave me feeling unsatisfied, longing for something more substantial and meaningful.

Perhaps what these poems lack is a broader perspective, a connection to the larger human experience. Without this connection, they risk becoming nothing more than self-indulgent musings.

In conclusion, while there are many brilliant poems out there, there are also those that fall short. It is up to the reader to discern the difference and choose those works that truly speak to them.

My Papa's Waltz is my favorite poem.

It vividly描绘s a childhood memory of dancing with one's father. The words seem to come alive, painting a picture in my mind.

The rhythm of the waltz is captured so well, making me feel as if I am right there in the moment.

The relationship between the father and son is complex and nuanced, filled with love and a hint of roughness.

I love how the poet uses language to convey these emotions.

Each stanza adds another layer to the story, making it a truly engaging read.

My Papa's Waltz has a special place in my heart, and I will always cherish it.

It reminds me of the importance of family and the simple pleasures in life.

Whenever I read it, I am transported back to a time when life was a little less complicated.

It is a beautiful and moving poem that I highly recommend to anyone.

One of my new favorite poets is the one who wrote "The Waking" poem. This poem started all this for me. I'm so glad that I found it and bought a copy.

When I read this poem, I had loads of fun. It was truly an enjoyable experience. The words seemed to dance on the page, captivating my imagination and taking me on a journey.

The poet's use of language and imagery was so vivid that I could picture every scene and emotion described. It made me think deeply about life, consciousness, and the meaning of our existence.

I would highly recommend this poem to anyone who loves poetry or is looking for a thought-provoking read. It has definitely become one of my all-time favorites and I will continue to revisit it again and again.

\\n  I Knew a Woman\\n

I knew a woman, truly lovely in her very essence. When the small birds would sigh, she would respond with a sigh of her own, as if in a silent dialogue with nature. Ah, and when she moved, it was a sight to behold. She had a grace and fluidity that was more than just physical movement. It was as if she could take on the shapes that a bright container can hold, constantly changing and evolving.

Of her many virtues, only the gods or perhaps English poets who had grown up steeped in Greek literature should dare to speak. I could imagine them singing in chorus, cheek to cheek, in praise of her.

How well her wishes were fulfilled! She would stroke my chin gently, teaching me the art of turning, counter-turning, and standing still. She would introduce me to the soft touch of her undulant white skin. I would nibble meekly from her proffered hand, like a willing student. She was the sickle, and I, poor I, was the rake, following behind her for the sake of her beauty. But together, we made a prodigious mowing, creating something beautiful and lasting.

Love, it seems, is like a gander that adores a goose. Her full lips would purse as she seized the errant note, playing it quick, light, and loose. My eyes would be dazzled by the sight of her flowing knees. Her various parts could maintain a pure repose, or a single hip could quiver with a mobile nose. She moved in circles, and those circles seemed to move with a life of their own.

Let the seed become grass, and the grass turn into hay. I find myself a martyr to a motion that is not my own. But what is freedom for if not to know eternity? I swear that she cast a shadow as white as stone. But who would count eternity in days? These old bones continue to live, learning her wanton ways. I measure time by how a body sways, for in her movement, I find a beauty and a mystery that I can never fully understand.

Roethke's historical significance is of great importance.

He holds a firmly established place in the American canon, which is a remarkable achievement. Moreover, his influence extends over a subsequent generation of award-winning poets. This group includes Robert Bly, James Dickey, Carolyn Kizer, Sylvia Plath, Anne Sexton, William Stafford, David Wagoner, and James Wright.

Another aspect that sets Roethke apart from other poets of his time is his unique technique. He never writes in an obscure manner. Instead, he always employs fresh language, skillfully avoiding cliches. Although his symbols are personal and may require time to fully understand, his writing remains accessible.

Roethke's craft is described as "strict and pure." Even the most staunch defenders of Sylvia Plath have admitted that Roethke's writing is more disciplined. One notable feature of his work is the unity of his vision. The Collected Poems traces a single spiritual journey, beginning with his childhood memories of the greenhouse and ending among "the windy cliffs of forever." Sadly, his early death cut short these last visions.

Roethke was a perceptive observer of the connections between the physical world and the metaphysical. Poems like "Meditation at Oyster River" demonstrate a profound understanding of Man's place in Nature, even in the ordinary aspects of an individual's life.

In conclusion, Roethke was indeed one of the great twentieth-century American poets, and these poems serve as evidence of his卓越才华.

Just as Keats said, "he ne're is crowned with immortality
Who fears to follow where any voices lead."

Twenty-five years ago, my favorite professor presented me with a copy of this collection of Roethke's poetry. It was a precious gift that I cherished deeply.

I then lent it to a good friend, and unfortunately, when she passed away, it was found beside her bed. Her mother decided to keep it as a token from me, which I thought was a touching gesture.

A few months ago, as I was out walking, the poem "Elegy For Jane," which happens to be my absolute favorite among these poems, suddenly popped into my mind. Line after line, it came flooding back to me with an odd yet powerful force. Roethke's writing has this unique ability to touch the hearts of any reader.

The moment I returned home from my walk, I wasted no time and immediately ordered myself another copy of Theodore Roethke's "The Collected Poems."

If you don't typically read poetry, I wholeheartedly invite you to give this a try. Maybe you've recently developed an interest in current poets but haven't yet heard of Roethke? Well, let me tell you, this book is the perfect collection for anyone. Truly.

Below is a small excerpt from my beloved "Elegy For Jane." (It was written by Roethke about a student of his who passed away as a result of being thrown by a horse).

"If only I could nudge you from this sleep,
My maimed darling, my skittery pigeon.
Over this damp grave I speak the words of my love:
I, with no rights in this matter,
Neither father nor lover."

© Theodore Roethke

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