Poem Analysis - To Pushkin

A Poet's Humble Reverence

Sergei Yesenin's "To Pushkin" is a deeply personal and reflective poem where the speaker, ostensibly Yesenin himself, grapples with his own identity and artistic aspirations in the shadow of a literary giant, Alexander Pushkin. The poem's tone is initially self-deprecating, marked by a confessional quality regarding the speaker's flaws. This quickly evolves into a respectful admiration for Pushkin, then culminates in a declaration of artistic purpose and resilience. The shift from personal failings to aspirational resolve is crucial to the poem's impact.

Echoes of Legacy: The Weight of Pushkin's Influence

Sergei Yesenin, a prominent Russian poet of the early 20th century, wrote during a period of immense social and political upheaval. The Russian Revolution had drastically altered the landscape, and poets were grappling with how to represent and navigate this new reality. Pushkin, a 19th-century literary icon, represented a more classical and established tradition. Yesenin, known for his raw emotionality and connection to rural Russia, positions himself both within and outside this tradition, acknowledging Pushkin's enduring legacy while forging his own distinct path.

Confronting Imperfection, Embracing Artistic Purpose

One prominent theme is the contrast between human fallibility and artistic greatness. Yesenin readily admits his own "delinquent" behavior, confessing to being "often pissed." This honesty serves to highlight the perceived gap between himself and the idealized Pushkin, whose "mien" remains untouched by such "sweet diversions." However, this recognition doesn't lead to despair; instead, it fuels a desire to transcend his limitations through art. This theme of ambition is inextricably linked to the second theme, artistic immortality. Yesenin longs to "ascend right to the heavens," echoing Pushkin's enduring fame and hoping that his own "song of Steppe" will "deep resound." He acknowledges that he is "doomed... to persecution," but this only strengthens his resolve to continue writing and creating a lasting legacy. A final theme, subtly present, is national identity. The poem opens with the speaker contemplating "Russia's fate" while standing on Tverskoy Boulevard. Pushkin, as "one who stands for Russia's fate," becomes a symbol of national pride and artistic achievement, a benchmark against which Yesenin measures himself and his contribution to Russian culture.

Bronze and Mist: Contrasting Images of Permanence and Transience

The poem is rich in contrasting imagery that reinforces its themes. The image of Pushkin is that of a bronze statue, solid, unyielding, and bathed in a "blueish sheen." This conveys a sense of permanence, dignity, and almost godlike status. In contrast, Yesenin describes himself as "like mist," suggesting ephemerality, instability, and perhaps even a lack of substance. This contrast underscores the vast difference the speaker perceives between himself and Pushkin. However, the "song of Steppe in execution" aiming to "deep resound with tone of bronze" indicates Yesenin's aspiration that his own art will possess similar enduring qualities. The steppe, a vast and open landscape, symbolizes the breadth and depth of Russian identity and culture, which Yesenin hopes to capture in his work. The juxtaposition of these images conveys the speaker's internal struggle and aspirations.

A Legacy of Song: Bridging the Gap

In conclusion, "To Pushkin" is a poignant exploration of a poet's self-perception in relation to a towering literary figure. Yesenin uses the poem to confront his own flaws, acknowledge Pushkin's enduring legacy, and ultimately assert his own artistic ambition. The poem's shift from self-deprecation to determination, combined with the contrasting imagery of bronze and mist, creates a powerful statement about the pursuit of artistic immortality and the desire to contribute to the cultural heritage of Russia. It's a testament to the enduring influence of great artists and the inspiration they provide to those who follow in their footsteps, even as they strive to forge their own unique paths.