Poem Analysis - Performance

A Pyrotechnic Display of Achievement and Melancholy

Les Murray's "Performance" is a short, powerful poem that explodes with vivid imagery of a triumphant achievement. The poem's tone is initially celebratory, even boastful, as the speaker revels in their dazzling performance. However, this exuberance quickly gives way to a stark, almost abrupt, shift in mood, culminating in a feeling of inconsolable sadness. The poem explores the complex emotions that accompany success, revealing the inherent loneliness that can follow even the most brilliant displays.

The Unforeseen Emptiness After Triumph

One of the main themes explored in "Performance" is the **paradox of achievement**. The speaker achieves a breathtaking triumph, described in dazzling terms. The poem showcases the speaker's exceptional performance, which is described as 'footwork and firework' and 'a rocket that wriggled up and shot darkness'. However, rather than feeling fulfilled, the speaker is left feeling 'inconsolable'. This stark contrast highlights the emptiness that can sometimes accompany even the most extraordinary accomplishments. It suggests that external validation and public acclaim may not necessarily lead to inner peace or lasting satisfaction.

Fire and Light: Symbols of Fleeting Glory

The poem is replete with potent symbols, most notably fire and light. These images are used to represent the speaker's performance, which is portrayed as a spectacular and unforgettable event. Phrases such as 'firework', 'blazing paint', 'para-flares', and 'red-tongued' evoke the intensity and brilliance of the performance. However, fire and light are also inherently ephemeral. They burn brightly but eventually fade, leaving behind only smoke and ashes. This symbolism suggests that the speaker's triumph, while dazzling, is also fleeting and ultimately unsustainable, contributing to the feeling of inconsolable sadness that follows.

The Price of Perfection: An Inconsolable Heart

Another significant theme is the **burden of perfectionism**. The speaker's performance is not just good; it's exceptional, surpassing all expectations. This emphasis on achieving a flawless display suggests a relentless pursuit of perfection. However, the poem implies that this pursuit comes at a cost. The speaker's inconsolable state suggests that the pressure to maintain such a high standard of performance is emotionally draining and ultimately unsatisfying. The poem hints that the relentless pursuit of perfection may lead to a feeling of emptiness and isolation, even in the wake of great success.

A Haunting Echo After the Applause

In conclusion, "Performance" is a poignant exploration of the complex emotions that accompany success. The poem's vivid imagery and stark contrast between triumph and sadness reveal the paradoxical nature of achievement, the fleeting nature of glory, and the potential burden of perfectionism. The speaker's inconsolable state serves as a haunting reminder that external validation and public acclaim may not always lead to inner peace, and that the pursuit of excellence can sometimes leave us feeling empty and alone. The poem ultimately invites us to consider the true meaning of success and the emotional toll it can take.