Poem Analysis - Commission

Initial Impression and Tone

Ezra Pound's "Commission" is a powerful, impassioned call to action. The poem's tone is urgent and defiant, with a strong sense of mission. It begins with a sense of urgency, addressing the songs as if they are messengers with a critical task. The mood shifts from a sense of mission to a more reflective and critical tone as the poem progresses, highlighting the various forms of oppression and stagnation that the songs are meant to challenge.

Themes of Oppression and Liberation

The primary theme of "Commission" is the struggle against oppression in all its forms. Pound calls for his songs to go to the "lonely and the unsatisfied," the "nerve-racked," and the "enslaved-by-convention," indicating a deep concern for those who are oppressed by societal norms and personal circumstances. The repetition of the phrase "Go to" emphasizes the poem's mission to reach out to those who are suffering, suggesting a theme of liberation and empowerment. The poem speaks against "unconscious oppression" and the "tyranny of the unimaginative," highlighting the insidious nature of oppression that can be subtle and unrecognized.

Imagery of Decay and Stagnation

The poem uses vivid imagery to convey a sense of decay and stagnation. The "bourgeoise dying of her ennuis" and the "hideously wedded" are examples of people trapped in unfulfilling lives. The image of "three generations of one house gathered together" is likened to "an old tree with shoots, and with some branches rotted and falling," suggesting a sense of decay and the burden of tradition. This imagery contributes to the overall message of the need for liberation from oppressive and stagnant circumstances. The "delicate lust" and "delicate desires" that are "thwarted" add to the sense of unfulfilled potential and the need for change.

Symbolism of the Songs

The songs themselves are a central symbol in the poem, acting as messengers of change and liberation. They are called to "go like a blight upon the dulness of the world," suggesting a disruptive and transformative force. The songs are also called to "strengthen the subtle cords" and "bring confidence upon the algae and the tentacles of the soul," indicating a nurturing and empowering role. The ambiguity of these images leaves room for interpretation, but they generally suggest a deep, transformative impact on the soul. The songs are also called to "defy opinion" and go "against this vegetable bondage of the blood," further emphasizing their role as agents of change and liberation.

Conclusion

"Commission" is a powerful call to action against oppression and stagnation. Through vivid imagery and symbolic language, Pound conveys a strong sense of mission and urgency. The poem's themes of liberation and empowerment are expressed through the songs, which are called to challenge and transform various forms of oppression. The poem's significance lies in its impassioned call for change and its recognition of the subtle and insidious nature of oppression. It serves as a reminder of the need to challenge and overcome the forces that limit and oppress us, both individually and collectively.