Poem Analysis - Quintets For Robert Morley

A Celebration of Fat: An Ode to Leisure and Civilization

Les Murray's "Quintets For Robert Morley" is a witty and provocative poem that playfully elevates the status of the "fat" to a position of cultural and historical significance. The poem moves from a lighthearted, almost apologetic tone to a more serious reflection on societal roles and the complexities of power. Through a blend of humor, historical allusions, and philosophical musings, Murray constructs a compelling argument for the virtues of the portly, suggesting they are not merely figures of excess but essential architects of civilization and balance.

The First Moderns: Redefining Historical Significance

One of the central themes of the poem is the re-evaluation of historical and cultural values. Murray challenges conventional notions of progress and achievement by attributing the origins of civilization, leisure, and even aspects of love and religion to the "fat." The poem asserts, "We were probably the earliest / civilized, and civilizing, humans, / the first to win the leisure, / sweet boredom, life-enhancing sprawl / that require style." This statement flips the traditional narrative, suggesting that those who could afford to be fat, implying access to surplus and stability, were the true pioneers of a refined existence. The reference to the Willendorf Venus, a Paleolithic fertility figure, further reinforces the connection between the "fat" and primal, life-affirming forces. The poem subtly critiques a modern obsession with productivity, insinuating that the "sweet boredom" associated with leisure is crucial for cultural and intellectual development.

Balance and Power: The Weight of Responsibility

The poem also explores themes of power, leadership, and the potential pitfalls of unchecked ambition. Murray cautions against trusting "a lean meritocracy / nor the leader who has been lean," arguing that "only the lifelong big have the knack of wedding / greatness with balance." Here, the "fat" symbolizes a certain stability and moderation, suggesting that those who have always been accustomed to abundance are less likely to be driven by a relentless pursuit of power. The poem implies that a lifelong experience with weight, both literally and metaphorically, cultivates a balanced perspective essential for effective leadership. In contrast, the "lean achiever" harbors a suppressed "fat man" driven by an insatiable hunger, posing a potential threat to equilibrium.

Disguised in a Spherical World: The Ambiguity of Appearance

Recurring images of fat and thin serve as potent symbols throughout the poem. While fat initially represents abundance, leisure, and cultural contribution, it also carries connotations of vulnerability and visibility, especially "in hot climates / where the hungry watch us." This creates a tension, acknowledging the privileges associated with fat while also highlighting the risks and moral ambiguities. The image of the "fat man / who lurks in the lean achiever" suggests that the desire for comfort and security exists within everyone, regardless of outward appearance. The closing lines, referencing Newton and the apple, introduce a layer of absurdity and suggest a deeper, more complex understanding of the world is needed. One could interpret the "ampler physics" as a metaphor for a more inclusive worldview that recognizes the value of all, including those who have traditionally been marginalized or dismissed.

A Lasting Legacy: Reimagining Importance

"Quintets For Robert Morley" is more than just a playful ode to the "fat"; it's a subtle critique of societal values and a call for a more nuanced understanding of history and human nature. By elevating the "fat" to a position of cultural importance, Murray challenges us to reconsider our assumptions about achievement, leadership, and the origins of civilization. The poem's blend of humor and philosophical depth makes it a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities of power, privilege, and the often-overlooked contributions of those who defy conventional expectations. Ultimately, the poem asks whether our societal measures of importance are skewed, and if by accepting different perspectives, we can perceive the world with an "ampler physics."