Poem Analysis - Everness

Introduction: A Timeless Reflection

Jorge Luis Borges' "Everness" is a profound meditation on memory, existence, and the nature of time. The poem evokes a sense of awe and wonder, tinged with a hint of melancholy, as it contemplates the vastness of the universe and the persistence of all things. Its tone is philosophical and contemplative, moving from a declaration about the permanence of existence to a vision of a boundless, all-encompassing memory. The poem ultimately suggests a reality beyond our immediate grasp, filled with archetypal forms and unimaginable splendors.

Borges and His Labyrinthine Universe

While specific historical or social circumstances are not explicitly present in the poem, Borges' lifelong fascination with libraries, labyrinths, and the nature of reality deeply informs "Everness." His Argentine identity also situates him within a literary tradition that often explores themes of identity and the complexities of human experience. Borges' characteristic style, which blends philosophical speculation with vivid imagery, shapes the poem's exploration of time and memory as intricate, interconnected systems.

The Enduring Power of Memory

One central theme of "Everness" is the all-encompassing nature of memory. Borges presents memory not merely as a human faculty, but as a fundamental aspect of the universe itself. The poem declares that "Solely one thing is not; it’s oblivion," asserting that everything that exists, or has existed, is preserved. God, described as saving both "metal" and "dross," symbolizes a force that cherishes all creations, both precious and seemingly insignificant. This divine memory encompasses all time, holding "the moons that will be and those that have been." The image of a "diverse crystal" further reinforces the idea of memory as a multifaceted and intricate structure that reflects and refracts all of existence.

The Fleeting Nature of Existence

Another prevalent theme in this poem is the transient and impermanent nature of existence. Lines 6-8 mention "all forms of waning light" and how "your face has been leaving in mirrors / and the ones it will go on leaving, always." This vivid imagery evokes a sense of fleeting moments and experiences that gradually fade and dissipate over time. Despite their ephemeral existence, the poem suggests that these moments are eternally captured within the vast memory of the universe. The "arduous corridors" of the universe, which "have no end," also highlight the never-ending journey of existence and the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

Archetypes and the Splendors Beyond

The poem culminates in a vision of something beyond our immediate comprehension, introducing the theme of transcendence. The closing lines suggest that the true nature of reality, the "Archetypes and the Splendors," can only be glimpsed from "the horizon’s other side." This implies a reality that exists beyond our everyday perception, a realm of pure forms and ultimate beauty. The "doors" that "close themselves at your step" may symbolize the limitations of human understanding or the barriers between our world and the divine realm. It suggests that true knowledge and enlightenment lie beyond our grasp, yet are always present, waiting to be discovered from a different perspective.

Mirrors, Light and Their Symbolism

Recurring symbols such as mirrors and light are central to the poem's meaning. Mirrors, as mentioned in the lines, "your face has been leaving in mirrors/and the ones it will go on leaving, always," represent reflection and the way images linger, representing memory itself and how we leave imprints over time. Light symbolizes knowledge, illumination, and the passage of time. The "waning light" suggests the fading nature of experience, while the "Splendors" hint at a radiant, ultimate truth. These symbols work together to create a sense of wonder and mystery, inviting us to contemplate the nature of reality and the enduring power of memory.

Conclusion: A Glimpse into Everness

In conclusion, "Everness" is a powerful exploration of memory, existence, and the possibility of transcendence. Through vivid imagery, philosophical contemplation, and recurring symbols, Borges creates a poem that resonates with a sense of awe and wonder. The poem suggests that everything that exists is eternally preserved within the universe's vast memory, offering a glimpse into a reality beyond our immediate comprehension. The poem's significance lies in its ability to invite us to contemplate the nature of time, memory, and the enduring beauty of existence.