Born on this day May 23, 1947, Jane Kenyon’s poetry is a beautiful and insightful reflection on the human experience, exploring themes of life, love, and loss with a delicate and poignant touch. Her works are a testament to the power of language to capture the essence of our emotions, and to help us make sense of the world around us. Through her vivid imagery and lyrical style, Kenyon invites us to join her on a journey of self-discovery and contemplation, as she grapples with the complexities of human relationships, the fragility of life, and the inevitability of death. Her poems are both intimate and universal, speaking to the human condition in a way that is both relatable and deeply moving.
Themes in Jane Kenyon’s Poetry
Jane Kenyon’s poetry often explores themes of life, love, and loss, capturing the essence of the human experience in a way that is both relatable and deeply moving. Her works offer a reflection on the beauty and fragility of life, and the ways in which we navigate the complexities of human relationships.
In “Otherwise,” Kenyon reflects on the fragility of life, and the ways in which small moments can take on a profound significance. She writes, “I got out of bed / on two strong legs. / It might have been / otherwise.” These lines serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between life and death, and the importance of cherishing each moment.
Similarly, in “Let Evening Come,” Kenyon reflects on the beauty of the natural world, and the ways in which it can offer solace in times of grief. She writes, “Let it come, as it will, and don’t / be afraid. God does not leave us / comfortless.” These lines offer a sense of hope and comfort, reminding us of the ways in which nature can offer a sense of peace.
“Let Evening Come”
“Let Evening Come” is one of Jane Kenyon’s most notable works, offering a reflection on the beauty and fragility of life. The poem is written in free verse, with a lyrical quality that captures the essence of the natural world.
The poem is structured around the image of evening, with Kenyon using vivid imagery to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. She writes, “Let dew collect on the hoe abandoned / in long grass. Let the stars appear / and the moon disclose her silver horn.” These lines offer a sense of calm, reminding us of the ways in which nature can offer a sense of solace.
“Otherwise”
“Otherwise” is a deeply personal and moving perspective of life, and the ways in which small moments can take on a profound significance. The poem is written in free verse, with a conversational tone that invites the reader into Kenyon’s world.
Here Kenyon reflects on the ways in which her life could have taken a different path. She writes, “I ate / cereal, sweet / milk, ripe, flawless / peach. It might / have been otherwise.” These lines offer a moment of happiness, reminding us to be present in the wonder of our everyday lives.
Recommended Readings
For those interested in exploring Jane Kenyon’s poetry further, there are a number of recommended readings to consider. Some of her most notable works include “Otherwise,” “Let Evening Come,” and “Having it Out with Melancholy.”
Other recommended readings include The Boat of Quiet Hours and Constance. These works offer a reflection on the beauty and complexities of the human experience, and the ways in which language can capture the essence of our emotions.
Her works continue to resonate with readers today, offering a sense of solace and comfort in times of grief. Kenyon’s legacy in contemporary poetry is a testament to the enduring impact of her works, and their ability to capture the essence of the human experience. For those interested in exploring her poetry further, there are a number of recommended readings to consider, offering a reflection on the beauty and complexities of life, and the power of language to capture the essence of our emotions.
Alone for a Week
I washed a load of clothes
and hung them out to dry.
Then I went up to town
and busied myself all day.
The sleeve of your best shirt
rose ceremonious
when I drove in; our night-
clothes twined and untwined in
a little gust of wind.
For me it was getting late;
for you, where you were, not.
The harvest moon was full
but sparse clouds made its light
not quite reliable.
The bed on your side seemed
as wide and flat as Kansas;
your pillow plump, cool,
and allegorical. . . .
-Jane Kenyon
Curated by Jennifer
