Poem Analysis - Coitus

Initial Impressions and Tone

Ezra Pound's "Coitus" is a brief yet evocative poem that captures a moment of sensual awakening and celebration. The tone is initially vibrant and celebratory, with a sense of renewal and vitality. However, there is a subtle shift towards a more introspective and restless mood as the poem progresses. The poem's brevity and use of vivid imagery create a sense of immediacy and intimacy, drawing the reader into a moment of heightened awareness.

Historical and Authorial Context

Ezra Pound, an American expatriate poet, was a significant figure in the modernist movement. His work often explores themes of renewal, sensuality, and the interplay between the natural world and human experience. Pound's background in classical literature and his interest in the revival of ancient cultures may influence the references to classical figures and the use of mythological allusions in this poem. The poem's setting in a springtime landscape suggests a connection to the cycles of nature and the renewal of life.

Themes of Renewal and Sensuality

The poem develops themes of renewal and sensuality through its vivid imagery and evocative language. The "gilded phaloi of the crocuses" thrusting at the spring air" is a striking image that suggests both the vitality of nature and the awakening of sensual desire. The use of the word "phaloi," which refers to ancient phallic symbols, underscores the poem's focus on fertility and renewal. The "procession of festival" and the reference to Giulio Romano, a Renaissance painter known for his erotic art, further emphasize the theme of sensual celebration. The poem's tone shifts from celebration to a more introspective mood with the lines "The dew is upon the leaf. The night about us is restless," suggesting a deeper, more personal reflection on the experience of renewal and desire.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and vivid imagery, which contribute to its overall message of renewal and sensuality. The crocuses, with their "gilded phaloi," symbolize the vitality and fertility of nature. The "procession of festival" and the reference to Giulio Romano evoke a sense of celebration and sensuality, suggesting a connection between the natural world and human desire. The "dew upon the leaf" and the "restless night" add a layer of introspection and mystery, hinting at the deeper, more personal aspects of the experience. The poem's use of classical references and mythological allusions further enrich its symbolism, creating a sense of timelessness and universality. The ambiguity of the final lines invites the reader to reflect on the complex interplay between nature, desire, and personal experience.

Conclusion

In "Coitus," Ezra Pound masterfully weaves together themes of renewal, sensuality, and introspection through vivid imagery and evocative language. The poem's use of classical references and mythological allusions adds depth and richness to its exploration of the natural world and human desire. The shift in tone from celebration to introspection invites the reader to reflect on the complex interplay between nature, desire, and personal experience. Ultimately, the poem offers a profound meditation on the cycles of life, the power of sensuality, and the enduring mysteries of human experience.