Phillis Levin’s poem, “End of April”, is a large metaphor, which makes the reader think more about the underlying meaning, for a more deep connection with Levin and her personal life. Her use of nature really paints a beautiful picture of her appreciation for the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Levin refers to “you”, the “you” could be a child who passed away, an ex-lover, or anyone who the speaker has lost or concluded a relationship with.
The overall tone of the poem is between happy and sad. The last two stanzas made me rethink about the tone, and made me realize that the speaker accepts the conclusion of the relationship because she knows that the ‘bird’ is not only living their physical life, but in her heart. It’s a bitter-sweet tone, just like in reality when we have a transition state into accepting the idea that something is over, but realizing that something new and beautiful can come out of the past experience.
This realization refers back to the Jesuit tradition and appreciation. This tradition allows the Jesuit followers to understand the “price” of what you have and when it’s taken from you. This poem shows the relationship of understanding that life goes on and to respect everything for what it is. The Jesuit tradition tells us not to take anything for granted, and you can see the realization of the Jesuit tradition throughout the poem. The speaker understands the philosophy of life, and it shows through the last two stanzas because she shows her gratefulness and joy towards the end of the relationship, this optimism is a key factor in the Jesuit tradition. This positive attitude allows for a more positive view on life, and living life to the fullest.
1 comment:
Thank you so much for this insight of this poem. I read it and loved it, but didn't quite understand the full meaning of it. It made me want to, so I looked it up. I found this and read what you had to say, and I really do understand now. So, thank you.
Post a Comment