Poem Analysis - Moeurs Contemporaines

Overall Impression and Tone

Ezra Pound's "Moeurs Contemporaines" is a multifaceted poem that explores various aspects of modern society through a series of vignettes. The tone shifts between satirical, reflective, and melancholic, offering a critical lens on contemporary life. The poem is fragmented, reflecting the disjointed nature of modern existence. Pound uses vivid imagery and stark contrasts to highlight the absurdities and complexities of human behavior and societal norms.

Themes of Modernity and Disillusionment

The poem delves into the theme of modernity, critiquing the superficiality and moral decay of contemporary society. In the first section, Mr. Styrax's life is a study in contrasts, highlighting the disconnect between his physical prowess and his emotional ineptitude. His wife's journey through various religious excesses underscores the search for meaning in a disillusioned world. The phrase "does not believe in asthetics" suggests a broader critique of modern values, where aesthetics and deeper meaning are often overlooked.

The theme of disillusionment is further explored in the second section, where Clara's life is marked by obscurity and trouble. Her vague ambitions and lack of desire for children reflect a sense of aimlessness and dissatisfaction. The third section, "Soirée," introduces a satirical tone, mocking the pretensions of a family of writers and their social circles. The young American pilgrim's exclamation, "This is a darn'd clever bunch!", underscores the irony and superficiality of their achievements.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with recurring symbols and vivid imagery that contribute to its overall message. The image of the harp and the satin-like bow in the fifth section is particularly striking. The harp, a symbol of harmony and elegance, is juxtaposed with the faded photograph and the unopened books, suggesting a contrast between appearance and reality. The "satin-like bow" and the "satin-like ribbon" on the harp add a layer of artificiality, hinting at the superficiality of modern life.

The "old men with beautiful manners" in the seventh section serve as a nostalgic symbol of a bygone era. Their presence is contrasted with the modern world, where such manners and values seem to have disappeared. The old men's stories and anecdotes, such as the cheer for Verdi and the anagram for Vittorio Emanuele, evoke a sense of history and tradition that is lost in the contemporary setting. The phrase "They will come no more" underscores the theme of loss and the passage of time.

Conclusion

"Moeurs Contemporaines" offers a critical reflection on modern society, highlighting its superficiality, disillusionment, and loss of traditional values. Through vivid imagery and stark contrasts, Pound critiques the moral decay and aimlessness of contemporary life. The poem's fragmented structure and shifting tones mirror the disjointed nature of modern existence, inviting readers to question the values and norms of their own time. Ultimately, the poem serves as a poignant commentary on the human condition in an ever-changing world.