Poem Analysis - Temporary Poem Of My Time

Yehuda Amichai’s "Temporary Poem Of My Time" is a powerful meditation on conflict, history, and the enduring connection to the land. The poem begins with a seemingly simple observation about language and quickly escalates into a visceral depiction of the cyclical violence plaguing Israel. The tone is initially reflective and almost detached, but it builds in intensity and urgency, culminating in a plea for peace. Ultimately, the poem explores the impossibility of escaping one's history and the desperate need to find a way to coexist peacefully with that history.

The Weight of History

One of the central themes in the poem is the overwhelming burden of history. The poem presents a litany of moments and actors involved in throwing stones, from specific historical years (1936, 1938, 1948, 1988) to broad categories like "Semites throw at Semites and anti-Semites at anti-Semites." This repetition underscores the cyclical nature of conflict and suggests that the past is constantly being re-enacted in the present. The poem argues that past grievances and historical animosities continue to fuel current conflicts, creating a seemingly endless cycle of violence.

The Land as Victim and Survivor

The land itself is a crucial symbol in the poem. It is repeatedly the object of the throwing, representing both the source of conflict and the enduring presence that remains despite the violence. The lines "They throw the land, want to get rid of it. / Its stones, its soil, but you can't get rid of it" emphasize the inextricable link between the people and the land. Despite the desire to disown or destroy it, the land persists, a constant reminder of the shared history and the shared future. The land's resilience suggests a hope for eventual reconciliation, even in the face of persistent conflict.

Stones as Instruments of Conflict and Building

The image of "stones" is a potent symbol throughout the poem, representing violence, memory, and the potential for creation and destruction. Stones are thrown in anger and hatred, causing pain and displacement. However, the poem also acknowledges that stones can be used for constructive purposes, as seen in the line "Herod threw stones and what came out was a Temple." This duality suggests that even acts of violence can inadvertently lead to something positive, although the primary focus remains on the destructive potential of conflict. The final plea to "throw little stones" and "throw air, throw nothing" is a desperate call to de-escalate the violence and seek alternative ways to resolve conflict.

Concluding Thoughts: A Weary Hope

"Temporary Poem Of My Time" is a profound reflection on the cyclical nature of conflict and the enduring connection to the land. Amichai’s use of vivid imagery, particularly the recurring symbol of stones, effectively conveys the weight of history and the urgent need for peace. The poem’s final lines, urging a cessation of violence, express a weary hope that reconciliation is possible, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles. The poem’s significance lies in its unflinching portrayal of the human cost of conflict and its powerful call for a more peaceful future. The idea is not to forget the past, but to find a way to coexist with it.