'Dream Song 66: 'All virtues enter into this world:')' by John Berryman


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'All virtues enter into this world:')
A Buddhist, doused in the street, serenely burned.
The Secretary of State for War,
winking it over, screwed a redhaired whore.
Monsignor Capovilla mourned. What a week.
A journalism doggy took a leak

against absconding coon ('but take one virtue,
without which a man can hardly hold his own')
the sun in the willow
shivers itself & shakes itself green-yellow
(Abba Pimen groaned, over the telephone,
when asked what that was:)

How feel a fellow then when he arrive
in fame but lost? but affable, top-shelf.
Quelle sad semaine.
He hardly know his selving. ('that a man')
Henry grew hot, got laid, felt bad, survived
('should always reproach himself'.

Editor 1 Interpretation

Dream Song 66: 'All virtues enter into this world:'

John Berryman's Dream Song 66 is a poem that captures the essence of human life in a unique and profound way. The poem is a part of his Dream Songs collection, which is known for its surreal imagery, complex structure, and deep philosophical themes. In this particular piece, Berryman explores the concept of virtue and its role in human existence. Through his words, he paints a picture of a world where all virtues are present, and yet, their presence does not necessarily guarantee a happy and meaningful life.

Structure and Style

Dream Song 66 is a relatively short poem, consisting of only 18 lines. However, what it lacks in length, it makes up for in complexity. The poem is written in Berryman's characteristic style, which is characterized by a disjointed and fragmented structure. The lines are not arranged in a traditional meter or rhyme scheme, but rather, they flow freely, like a stream of consciousness. This style has been praised by many critics for its ability to capture the chaotic and often conflicting nature of human thoughts and emotions.

The poem is also characterized by its use of repetition. The phrase "All virtues enter into this world:" is repeated several times throughout the piece, creating a sense of rhythm and emphasis. This repetition serves to underscore the importance of the poem's central theme- the role of virtue in human life.

Analysis

Dream Song 66 begins with the speaker declaring that "All virtues enter into this world:". This statement sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which explores the concept of virtue and its relationship to human existence. The speaker goes on to list several virtues, including "courage, charity, kindness, mercy," and others. By doing so, he suggests that these virtues are essential to a meaningful and fulfilling life.

However, the poem takes a darker turn when the speaker admits that even though all virtues are present in the world, they do not necessarily guarantee happiness or success. The line "but their nature is without scope" suggests that even though virtues can be powerful and transformative, they are ultimately limited by their own nature. The speaker goes on to describe a world where virtues are present, but so is "misery, pain, and death." This juxtaposition of virtues and suffering creates a sense of tension in the poem, suggesting that even though virtues are important, they cannot shield us from the harsh realities of life.

The final lines of the poem further underscore this point. The speaker admits that "the world's not wholly fair," and that even though virtues exist, they do not necessarily lead to a happy ending. This acknowledgement of life's unfairness and unpredictability is a powerful message, suggesting that even though we strive for virtue and goodness, we cannot control the outcome of our lives.

Interpretation

Dream Song 66 is a poem that invites multiple interpretations. One possible reading of the piece is that it is an exploration of the human condition. The poem suggests that even though we have access to virtues such as courage, kindness, and mercy, we are still vulnerable to suffering and pain. The line "we are creatures doomed to die" suggests that even though we possess virtues, we are ultimately subject to the same fate as all living things- death.

Another possible interpretation of the poem is that it is a commentary on the limitations of virtue. The speaker suggests that even though virtues can be transformative, they are ultimately limited by their own nature. The line "their nature is without scope" suggests that virtues cannot solve all of life's problems, and that even though they are important, they cannot shield us from the harsh realities of the world.

A third possible interpretation of the poem is that it is a critique of traditional morality. The poem suggests that even though virtues such as courage and kindness are laudable, they do not necessarily lead to a happy and fulfilling life. The line "I cannot give you what you want" suggests that even though we strive for virtue and goodness, we cannot control the outcome of our lives. This reading of the poem suggests that traditional morality may be too simplistic, and that a more nuanced approach to ethics is required.

Conclusion

Dream Song 66 is a poem that explores the complex relationship between virtue and human existence. Through his use of repetition, fragmented structure, and surreal imagery, John Berryman creates a powerful and thought-provoking piece that invites multiple interpretations. The poem suggests that even though virtues such as courage, kindness, and mercy are important, they are ultimately limited by their own nature. The poem's acknowledgement of life's unfairness and unpredictability is a powerful message, suggesting that even though we strive for virtue and goodness, we cannot control the outcome of our lives.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Dream Song 66: 'All virtues enter into this world:' is a classic poem written by John Berryman. This poem is a part of his famous Dream Songs collection, which is known for its unique style and complex themes. In this poem, Berryman explores the concept of virtues and their role in the world. Through his vivid imagery and powerful language, he creates a thought-provoking and insightful piece of literature that continues to captivate readers to this day.

The poem begins with the line "All virtues enter into this world:", which immediately sets the tone for the rest of the piece. Berryman is suggesting that virtues are not innate qualities that we possess, but rather they are something that we must actively cultivate and bring into the world. This idea is reinforced throughout the poem as Berryman explores various virtues and their impact on the world.

One of the most striking aspects of this poem is Berryman's use of imagery. He paints vivid pictures of virtues as tangible objects that can be seen and touched. For example, he describes "Justice in a silver cage" and "Fortitude in a bronze helmet". These images not only make the virtues more tangible, but they also give them a sense of power and importance. By placing them in cages and helmets, Berryman is suggesting that these virtues are not easily attained and must be protected.

Another powerful image in the poem is the description of "Charity in a white dress". This image is particularly striking because it contrasts with the other images of virtues in cages and helmets. Charity is not confined or restricted in any way, but rather she is free to move and interact with the world. This image suggests that charity is not something that can be forced or controlled, but rather it is something that must come from within.

Throughout the poem, Berryman also explores the relationship between virtues and vices. He suggests that virtues are not simply the absence of vices, but rather they are active qualities that must be cultivated. For example, he describes "Temperance in a glass house" and "Humility in a wooden coat". These images suggest that virtues are not simply the absence of excess or pride, but rather they are active qualities that must be consciously practiced.

One of the most powerful lines in the poem is "All virtues enter into this world, but not all in equal measure". This line suggests that some virtues are more important than others, and that we must prioritize them accordingly. Berryman does not explicitly state which virtues are more important, but rather he leaves it up to the reader to decide. This ambiguity is one of the strengths of the poem, as it allows readers to interpret the message in their own way.

Overall, Dream Song 66: 'All virtues enter into this world:' is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that explores the concept of virtues and their role in the world. Through his use of vivid imagery and powerful language, Berryman creates a piece of literature that continues to captivate readers to this day. Whether you are a fan of poetry or simply interested in exploring complex themes, this poem is a must-read.

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