Poem Analysis - The Instrument

Les Murray's "The Instrument" is a complex reflection on the nature of poetry, its audience, and its role in the world. The poem begins with a somewhat cynical observation about who does not read poetry, moving into a celebration of its dedicated (though small) readership. The tone then shifts, acknowledging a broader, often unrecognized form of poetry inherent in everyday life, before circling back to the motivations and peculiar existence of the poet themselves. It’s a thoughtful, somewhat whimsical, exploration of a seemingly niche art form that paradoxically permeates everything.

Poetry's Niche Audience and Devoted Lovers

One central theme is the limited audience of "true" poetry. Murray bluntly states who doesn't read it – intellectuals seeking control, lovers seeking quick fixes, and school kids forced to endure it. He highlights the contrast between this limited readership and the wider world. The lines, "Poetry is read by the lovers of poetry / and heard by some more they coax to the café / or the district library for a bifocal reading," paint a picture of a small, dedicated community. This emphasis on the scarcity of poetry readers paradoxically elevates their devotion. The reference to skat players reinforces the idea that poetry appreciation is a specialized interest held by relatively few.

The Pervasive Power of "Feral Poetry"

The poem introduces the concept of "feral poetry" to address the second important theme: poetry's hidden omnipresence in modern society. Murray argues that while traditional poetry has a limited audience, its essence – the power of language, rhythm, and metaphor – permeates everyday life in the form of slogans, advertising, and cultural constructs. "Porsche, lift-off, Gaia, Cool, patriarchy" are presented as examples of these "feral stanzas" that shape our thinking and behavior. This section suggests that poetry's influence is far broader and deeper than commonly acknowledged, though it operates under a disguised form.

The Poet's Peculiar Calling

The third theme explores the motivation and experience of the poet. Murray delves into the reasons why one might choose to write poetry, presenting a mix of the idealistic and the darkly humorous. He speaks of "weird unemployment" and "painless headaches" as occupational hazards, but also highlights the intrinsic rewards: "For working always beyond / your own intelligence" and "For not needing to rise / and betray the poor to do it." These lines portray poetry as a challenging, sometimes absurd, but ultimately ethical and intellectually stimulating pursuit, set apart from the compromises of other professions. He paints a picture of the poet as someone who exists both within and outside the ordinary world, uniquely attuned to the rhythms of dream and reality.

Symbols of Confinement and Liberation

One key symbol is the "paper" upon which verse is "suspended in rapt calm." This image suggests a delicate balance and a fragile existence. The paper could represent both the limitations of the written word and the freedom it offers to express oneself. Furthermore, the image of "breathing in dream-rhythm when awake" symbolizes the poet's ability to tap into a deeper, more imaginative source of creativity. This could be interpreted as a gift, but also a burden, as it sets the poet apart from the ordinary. Finally, the phrase "tragic with a book on your head" is curious. Is this meant as an image of intelligence, or folly? Perhaps Murray intended it to be both. Its ambiguity leaves space for the reader to decide if this image represents intelligence and the pursuit of art as being naturally tragic, or if it paints the pursuit of literary work as being inherently absurd.

Final Word: Poetry's Paradoxical Power

In conclusion, "The Instrument" is a multi-layered poem that examines the paradox of poetry's existence. It acknowledges its niche audience while simultaneously asserting its pervasive influence in the broader culture. Through vivid imagery and a blend of cynicism and celebration, Murray ultimately presents poetry as a powerful force – a tool for understanding the world, challenging conventions, and exploring the depths of human experience. The poem's lasting significance lies in its ability to make us reconsider our assumptions about what poetry is and where it can be found.