Poem Analysis - Les Millwin

Initial Impression and Tone

Ezra Pound's "Les Millwin" presents a vivid and somewhat detached scene at a Russian ballet performance. The poem's tone is initially whimsical and almost detached, with a touch of irony. It shifts to a more observational and almost clinical mood as it describes the reactions of the art students and the little Millwins. The final lines introduce a sense of solemnity, as if the poet is making an important declaration. The poem's form, with its irregular lines and lack of a consistent rhyme scheme, supports the fragmented and observational nature of the content.

Historical and Authorial Context

Ezra Pound, an American expatriate, was a significant figure in the modernist movement. His work often reflects his interest in various art forms and his engagement with contemporary cultural scenes. The poem's setting at a Russian ballet and the presence of art students from the Slade School of Art in London suggest a cosmopolitan and artistically rich environment. This context highlights Pound's fascination with the interplay between different artistic disciplines and his role as a cultural observer.

Themes of Observation and Detachment

The poem explores the theme of observation and detachment through its portrayal of the little Millwins and the art students. The Millwins are described as having "mauve and greenish souls" and "large and anaemic eyes," suggesting a sense of otherworldliness and detachment from the vibrant scene before them. Their "unused boas" lying along the upper seats further emphasize their passive and unengaged presence. This detachment contrasts with the "turbulent and undisciplined host of art students," who are actively engaged and exultant, with their "arms exalted" and "fore-arms crossed in great futuristic X's." The poem seems to comment on the different ways people experience and engage with art.

Themes of Art and Perception

The theme of art and perception is central to the poem. The art students' exultation at the "splendours of Cleopatra" contrasts with the Millwins' passive observation. The poem suggests that art is not just about what is presented but also about how it is perceived. The Millwins' detached and almost clinical observation of the scene highlights the subjective nature of artistic experience. The final lines, where the poet mentions the fact as "worthy of record," further emphasize the idea that the perception and interpretation of art are as important as the art itself.

Themes of Record and Significance

The final lines of the poem introduce the theme of record and significance. The poet's declaration that the scene is "worthy of record" suggests a sense of importance and significance. This theme ties into the poem's overall exploration of observation and perception, as it implies that even seemingly mundane or detached observations can have significance. The poem's final lines serve as a reminder of the value of recording and interpreting the world around us, even when it seems ordinary or unremarkable.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in vivid imagery and symbolism. The "mauve and greenish souls" of the Millwins and their "unused boas" symbolize their detachment and passivity. The art students, with their "arms exalted" and "fore-arms crossed in great futuristic X's," symbolize active engagement and exultation. The "splendours of Cleopatra" represent the vibrant and captivating nature of art. The contrast between the Millwins' passive observation and the art students' active engagement highlights the different ways people experience and interpret art. The final lines, with their solemn declaration, serve as a reminder of the significance of observation and interpretation.

Conclusion

"Les Millwin" by Ezra Pound offers a nuanced exploration of observation, perception, and the significance of art. Through its vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem contrasts the detached passivity of the Millwins with the active engagement of the art students. This contrast highlights the subjective nature of artistic experience and the importance of recording and interpreting the world around us. The poem's final lines serve as a reminder of the value of observation and interpretation, even in seemingly mundane or unremarkable situations. Ultimately, "Les Millwin" invites readers to consider the ways in which they engage with and interpret the art and experiences that surround them.