Poem Analysis - Photographing Aspirations

Introduction: A Crushing of Dreams

Les Murray’s "Photographing Aspirations" is a stark and unsettling poem that captures the tragic collision between youthful ambition and brutal reality. The poem's tone is initially vibrant, almost celebratory, as it depicts a youth engrossed in speed and the allure of machinery. However, this quickly descends into a grim portrayal of physical and emotional devastation. The poem juxtaposes the exhilarating pursuit of dreams with the devastating consequences that can arise from them, ultimately leaving the reader with a sense of profound loss and disillusionment.

The Perilous Pursuit of Speed and Glory

One of the central themes of the poem is the destructive potential of unchecked ambition. The "youth swimming in space / above his whiplash motorcycle" is initially presented as an embodiment of freedom and daring. This image, however, is immediately undercut by the foreshadowing of "quadriplegia," a stark reminder of the potential for catastrophic failure. The "fume-glossed, unbearably shrill" car and the motorcycle symbolize the allure of speed and the desire for exhilaration, but they also represent a dangerous and ultimately destructive force. The poem suggests that the pursuit of these aspirations can lead to devastating consequences, both physical and emotional.

The Body's Betrayal and Loss of Dignity

Another prominent theme is the loss of dignity and control following a life-altering injury. The poem doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of quadriplegia. The lines "after, he begged video scenes / not display his soaking jeans, / urine that leathers would have hidden" are particularly poignant. They reveal the youth's desperate attempt to retain some semblance of dignity in the face of overwhelming physical limitations. This imagery underscores the profound loss of control over his own body and the shame associated with his condition. The body, once a vehicle for achieving aspirations, becomes a source of humiliation and despair.

Machines and the Illusion of Power

The poem employs powerful imagery, particularly related to machines, to explore the theme of false power and control. The "drag cars have engines on their engines" suggests an escalating pursuit of power and speed, an almost obsessive desire to push the limits. However, this power is revealed to be an illusion when confronted with the fragility of the human body. The motorcycle, initially a symbol of freedom and control, becomes an instrument of devastation, highlighting the precariousness of human existence in the face of mechanical forces. The image of the "whiplash motorcycle" itself speaks to the sudden and violent nature of the accident, underscoring the loss of control.

A Question of Hope and Acceptance

The poem concludes with the disturbing image of the engines on engines, which seems to suggest the youth may have survived. It’s an odd image because it may imply the possibility of further aspiration. This begs the question: Does the poem offer any glimmer of hope or does it simply depict the bleakness of a life forever altered? The final image leaves the reader to contemplate the youth's future and whether he will find the strength to adapt to his new reality. Is the poem a cautionary tale about the dangers of reckless ambition, or a testament to the enduring human spirit's capacity to endure even the most devastating setbacks?

Conclusion: A Tragedy of Unfulfilled Potential

In conclusion, "Photographing Aspirations" is a powerful and unsettling poem that explores the tragic intersection of youthful ambition and the harsh realities of physical limitation. Through vivid imagery and a stark portrayal of loss, Murray critiques the allure of speed and the pursuit of glory while simultaneously highlighting the fragility of the human body and the profound impact of life-altering injuries. The poem's enduring significance lies in its unflinching depiction of the human cost of unchecked aspiration and its poignant exploration of the struggle to maintain dignity in the face of overwhelming adversity. It leaves the reader with a lingering sense of unease and a renewed appreciation for the precariousness of life.