Poem Analysis - Whereas By Dark Really Released

Introduction: A Dichotomy of Desire

E.E. Cummings' "Whereas By Dark Really Released" presents a stark contrast between a woman's public and private selves, exploring the raw, passionate intensity hidden beneath a veneer of societal expectation. The poem moves from a depiction of overt sexuality and power in the darkness to a detached, almost disgusted portrayal of superficiality during the day. The tone oscillates between fervent desire and cold observation, creating a sense of unease and questioning the nature of true identity. Cummings uses vivid imagery and unconventional language to dissect the complexities of female sexuality and its relationship to societal constraints.

Unveiling the Hidden Flame: The Power of Night

One of the central themes of the poem is the **contrast between public facade and private desire**. The first half of the poem, focusing on the night, reveals the woman's "indomitable body" and "careful fierceness." This is a realm of raw, uninhibited passion, where she actively takes control. The language is visceral and intense, with phrases like "terrific fingers which grapple and joke" and "passionate anatomy." This powerful imagery suggests a woman who is confident and unashamed of her sexuality, a stark contrast to the "lady in her limousine" presented later in the poem. The darkness acts as a catalyst, releasing her true self from the constraints of societal expectations.

The Perfume of Disinterest: Society's Sweet Sake

The latter half of the poem shifts dramatically, portraying the woman's daytime persona. Here, she is confined within a "limousine," a symbol of wealth and status but also of isolation and confinement. The phrase "just a halfsmile (for society's sweet sake)" highlights the insincerity and performance of her public role. The "nearly-opaque / perfume disinterestedly obscene" becomes a symbol of the superficiality and detachment of the upper class. It suggests that even her most intimate expression—her scent—is manufactured and ultimately repulsive, devoid of genuine feeling. This section emphasizes the theme of **social conformity and its stifling effect on individuality**.

Grappling and Joking: The Ambiguity of Power Dynamics

A recurring symbol in the poem is the **physical interaction and power dynamic** between the speaker and the woman. In the first stanza, the speaker describes her "gripping" his head and the "terrific fingers which grapple and joke." This imagery is both erotic and slightly violent, suggesting a complex interplay of control and submission. The ambiguity raises questions about the nature of their relationship and the woman's agency. Are her actions a genuine expression of desire, or are they a performance designed to fulfill a particular role? The open-ended nature of this interaction invites the reader to consider the multifaceted nature of power and sexuality.

The Bitter Aftertaste of Obscenity: A Final Reflection

In conclusion, "Whereas By Dark Really Released" is a powerful exploration of the **duality of human nature**, particularly concerning female sexuality and societal expectations. Cummings masterfully contrasts the vibrant, uninhibited passion of the night with the detached superficiality of the day, exposing the cost of conforming to social norms. The poem’s significance lies in its ability to challenge conventional notions of female identity and to reveal the hidden complexities beneath the surface of social performance. The "perfume disinterestedly obscene," lingering in the air, serves as a potent reminder of the inauthenticity and moral decay that can result from prioritizing appearance over genuine emotion.