Poem Analysis - Instants

Introduction: A Lament for a Life Unlived

Jorge Luis Borges' "Instants" is a poignant reflection on a life lived with excessive caution and a yearning for a more vibrant, spontaneous existence. The poem's tone begins as a wistful regret, a catalogue of missed opportunities and self-imposed restrictions. It gradually evolves into a desperate plea to embrace the present, fueled by the speaker's awareness of his impending death. Ultimately, the poem serves as a powerful reminder to seize the day and prioritize experiences over prudence.

The Weight of Regret: A Theme of Mortality

One of the central themes of "Instants" is the exploration of mortality and the regret of a life not fully lived. The speaker, an 85-year-old man, faces the stark reality of his approaching death and laments the choices he made throughout his life. The lines "if I have the life to live - but now I am 85, / and I know that I am dying ..." emphasize the irreversible nature of time and the finality of death. This realization fuels the speaker's desperate desire to have lived differently, to have embraced life's uncertainties and pleasures. The poem illustrates how the awareness of one's mortality can lead to a profound re-evaluation of past actions and a yearning for a different future.

Embracing Imperfection: A Rebellion Against Conformity

The poem also develops the theme of embracing imperfection and rejecting societal expectations of prudence. The speaker explicitly states his desire to "make more mistakes," indicating a rejection of the pursuit of perfection that characterized his past. He wants to be "more relaxed" and "more full," suggesting a desire for a life less burdened by anxieties and more open to experiences. This theme is further emphasized by the speaker's wish to take "fewer things seriously" and be "less hygienic," challenging the conventional notions of a well-lived and responsible life. This shift in perspective reflects a yearning for authenticity and a rejection of the constraints imposed by societal norms.

The Power of the Present: A Plea for Action

A third major theme is the importance of living in the present moment. The speaker's realization that he is dying serves as a catalyst for his urgent plea to "don't lose the now!" This line encapsulates the poem's central message: that life is fleeting, and opportunities for joy and experience should be seized without hesitation. The contrast between the speaker's past life, characterized by caution and excessive preparation ("without a thermometer, / without a hot-water bottle, / and without an umbrella and without a parachute."), and his desired future, filled with spontaneity and risk-taking ("I will travel light") reinforces the importance of embracing the present and shedding unnecessary burdens. The "thermometer, hot-water bottle, umbrella, and parachute" represent the excessive precautions taken that prevented the speaker from fully experiencing life. They are symbols of fear and a reluctance to engage with the world.

Vivid Imagery: Sunsets, Mountains, and Ice Cream

The poem employs vivid imagery to illustrate the experiences the speaker regrets missing. Images like "watch more sunsets," "climb more mountains," "swim more rivers," "go to more places," and "eat more ice creams" evoke a sense of adventure, sensory pleasure, and connection with nature. These images serve as tangible representations of the life the speaker longed for, highlighting the contrast between his restrained past and his idealized future. The imagery of "sunsets" and "sunrises" could symbolize the appreciation of each day, while mountains and rivers represent the challenges and joys that life has to offer. The ice cream and lime beans represent the simpler pleasures. The choice of these specific images contributes to the poem's emotional impact, making the speaker's regret more palpable and relatable.

Conclusion: A Final Insight into the Poem’s Significance

"Instants" is a powerful and moving poem about the importance of living life to the fullest. Through the speaker's regretful reflections, Borges delivers a universal message about embracing imperfection, prioritizing experience over prudence, and seizing the present moment. The poem's simplicity and directness contribute to its emotional impact, making it a poignant reminder to appreciate the fleeting nature of life and to pursue our passions with courage and enthusiasm. The poem isn't just about regretting the past; it's a call to action for those who still have the chance to shape their future. It’s about living authentically, embracing risks, and finding joy in the simple pleasures of life before it's too late.