Poem Analysis - Raise The Shade

A Glimpse into Domestic Weariness

E.E. Cummings' "Raise The Shade" offers a poignant peek into the mundane reality of working-class life, specifically through the dialogue of what seems to be two women. The poem's tone initially feels casual and conversational, almost whimsical with its colloquial language and fragmented structure. However, a current of weariness and empathy flows beneath the surface, gradually becoming more pronounced as the poem progresses. The shift in mood moves from the initial lightheartedness to a quiet acknowledgement of the hardship endured by others and finally to pain.

Everyday Conversation as Social Commentary

Cummings, known for his experimental use of language and punctuation, often explored themes of individuality and social commentary. While the poem avoids explicitly stating its political stance, it subtly hints at the social conditions of working-class women. The women speaking have to open the shade "every day of their lives" and their acknowledgement of "poor girls that gets up god / knows when" implicitly criticizes the unequal distribution of labor and the lack of opportunities for many. The casual language and intimate tone create a sense of authenticity, grounding the social commentary in the lived experiences of ordinary people.

The Weight of Empathy and Shared Suffering

One of the central themes explored in the poem is empathy. The speaker's admission that she is "sorry for awl the / poor girls" underscores her understanding of their plight. This empathy is not presented as a grand gesture, but rather as a quiet acknowledgment of shared suffering. The repetition of "dearie" serves as a term of endearment but also emphasizes the bond between the women, hinting at their shared experiences of hardship. The fragmented syntax and colloquial language create a sense of intimacy, further highlighting the emotional connection between the speakers.

The Symbolism of the Shade

The "shade" itself functions as a central symbol in the poem. On a literal level, it represents a physical barrier to light and view. Metaphorically, it can be interpreted as a symbol of the constraints and limitations placed upon the lives of these women. Raising the shade can be seen as a small act of defiance, a conscious choice to let in light and perhaps a glimpse of hope. However, the final lines, "not so / hard dear/ you're killing me" suggests that even this simple act can be painful, highlighting the fragility and vulnerability of the women. Is the struggle to raise the shade solely physical, or does it also represent the mental and emotional toll of daily life?

A Final Glimpse of Resilience

In conclusion, "Raise The Shade" is a small but impactful poem that captures the quiet strength and resilience of working-class women. Through its fragmented language and intimate tone, Cummings offers a glimpse into their daily lives, marked by both weariness and empathy. The poem’s significance lies in its ability to elevate the ordinary, revealing the profound emotions and social realities hidden within everyday conversations. The simple act of raising the shade becomes a symbol of their struggle, their connection, and their enduring spirit.