Marianne Moore, an eminent figure in American literary history, holds a significant place as an innovator who redefined modern poetry with her unique style and approach. Born on this day November 15, 1887, Moore’s literary journey began early, with her first professional work published in 1915. However, it was in the subsequent decades that she truly began to impact the literary world.
Her innovative style, characterized by the use of syllabic verse and precise diction, made her one of the leading figures of the modernist movement in American poetry. Marianne Moore’s work was not characterized by the flamboyant expression of emotions or the grandeur of romanticism but rather by her precise observations, intellectual rigor, and a keen interest in the details of the natural world. This set her apart from her contemporaries and defined her unique voice in modern poetry.
Marianne Moore’s poetry was a mirror to her life- an embodiment of her fascination with subjects as varied as animals, art, culture, and history. Her diverse interests brought a richness to her poetry that was unprecedented. She was adept at juxtaposing seemingly disparate elements to create a harmonious whole, an aspect that made her work distinctive. This innovative approach earned her numerous accolades, including the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 1951.
Moore’s work resonates even today due to its relevance and timeless appeal. Her meticulous attention to detail, combined with a profound understanding of the human experience, resulted in poetry that transcended conventional boundaries. Marianne Moore was more than just a poet; she was a literary innovator whose work continues to inspire and influence modern poets. Her contribution to American literature is invaluable, and she remains an enduring symbol of literary innovation and excellence.
A Jelly-Fish
Visible, invisible,
A fluctuating charm,
An amber-colored amethyst
Inhabits it; your arm
Approaches, and
It opens and
It closes;
You have meant
To catch it,
And it shrivels;
You abandon
Your intent—
It opens, and it
Closes and you
Reach for it—
The blue
Surrounding it
Grows cloudy, and
It floats away
From you.
-Marianne Moore
Curated by Jennifer
