“The Want Bone: A Poetic Analysis by Robert Pinsky” is a thought-provoking essay that delves into the themes and techniques used in the poem “The Want Bone” by Robert Pinsky. The article explores the ways in which Pinsky uses language and imagery to evoke a sense of desire and longing, while also examining the deeper meaning behind the poem’s central metaphor. Through a close reading of the text, the essay offers insights into the power of poetry to capture the complexities of human emotion and experience.
Background Information on Robert Pinsky
Robert Pinsky is an American poet, essayist, and literary critic. He was born on October 20, 1940, in Long Branch, New Jersey. Pinsky attended Rutgers University and later received his Ph.D. in English from Stanford University. He has published numerous collections of poetry, including “Sadness and Happiness,” “Jersey Rain,” and “Gulf Music.” Pinsky served as the United States Poet Laureate from 1997 to 2000 and has received numerous awards for his work, including the Lenore Marshall Poetry Prize and the National Book Critics Circle Award. In addition to his poetry, Pinsky is also known for his work as a translator, particularly of Dante’s “Inferno.” He currently teaches at Boston University and is the poetry editor for Slate magazine.
Overview of “The Want Bone”
“The Want Bone” is a poem by Robert Pinsky that explores the human desire for connection and fulfillment. The title itself suggests a deep yearning, as the “want bone” is a term used to describe the furcula bone in birds that is believed to grant wishes when broken. Pinsky uses vivid imagery and metaphors to convey the complexity of human desire and the struggle to find satisfaction. The poem is divided into three sections, each exploring a different aspect of the human experience. Overall, “The Want Bone” is a thought-provoking and introspective piece that invites readers to reflect on their own desires and the ways in which they seek fulfillment.
Analysis of the Title
The title of Robert Pinsky’s poem, “The Want Bone,” immediately captures the reader’s attention with its intriguing and enigmatic quality. The phrase “want bone” is not a commonly used term, and its meaning is not immediately clear. However, upon closer examination, the title reveals itself to be a powerful metaphor for the human desire for fulfillment and the struggle to achieve it. The word “want” suggests a deep longing or craving, while “bone” implies something essential and foundational. Together, they create an image of a fundamental human need that is both unyielding and insatiable. By choosing this title, Pinsky sets the tone for a poem that explores the complexities of human desire and the ways in which it shapes our lives.
Structure of the Poem
The structure of “The Want Bone” by Robert Pinsky is unique and complex. The poem is divided into three stanzas, each with a different number of lines. The first stanza has six lines, the second has eight, and the third has ten. This progression of increasing lines creates a sense of building tension and momentum throughout the poem.
Additionally, the poem is written in free verse, meaning it does not follow a strict rhyme or meter. However, Pinsky uses repetition and alliteration to create a musical quality to the poem. For example, the repeated use of the word “want” in the title and throughout the poem creates a sense of desire and longing.
The poem also contains several literary devices, such as metaphor and imagery. The “want bone” itself is a metaphor for the human desire for love and connection. Pinsky uses vivid imagery to describe the bone, comparing it to a “wishbone” and a “forked stick.”
Overall, the structure of “The Want Bone” adds to the poem’s complexity and depth. Pinsky’s use of repetition, alliteration, and metaphor create a musical and visual experience for the reader.
Themes Explored in “The Want Bone”
In “The Want Bone,” Robert Pinsky explores several themes that are central to the human experience. One of the most prominent themes is the idea of desire and longing. The poem’s title itself suggests a deep yearning for something that is just out of reach. Throughout the poem, Pinsky uses vivid imagery to convey this sense of longing, describing the speaker’s desire as a “bone” that is buried deep within him. This bone represents a fundamental need that cannot be ignored or suppressed, no matter how hard the speaker tries.
Another theme that Pinsky explores in “The Want Bone” is the idea of mortality. The poem is filled with references to death and decay, from the “rotting” fruit to the “dead” leaves on the ground. The speaker seems acutely aware of his own mortality, and this awareness only intensifies his desire for something more. He longs for a sense of purpose or meaning that will outlast his own life, something that will give him a sense of immortality even in the face of death.
Finally, Pinsky touches on the theme of identity in “The Want Bone.” The speaker seems to be struggling with his own sense of self, trying to reconcile his desires and longings with the reality of his life. He is torn between his desire for something more and his need to accept the limitations of his own existence. This struggle is reflected in the poem’s structure, which is fragmented and disjointed, as if the speaker is trying to piece together a sense of self from the fragments of his own experience.
Overall, “The Want Bone” is a powerful exploration of some of the most fundamental themes of human existence. Through his use of vivid imagery and fragmented structure, Pinsky captures the complexity and depth of the human experience, and invites readers to reflect on their own desires, mortality, and sense of self.
Symbolism in the Poem
In “The Want Bone,” Robert Pinsky employs various symbols to convey the poem’s central theme of desire and longing. One of the most prominent symbols is the “want bone” itself, which represents the speaker’s insatiable hunger for something more in life. The bone is described as “the forked bone / That divides the feeding tube from the windpipe,” highlighting the idea that desire is a fundamental part of human nature, just as the need for sustenance is.
Another symbol used in the poem is the image of the “blackberry,” which represents the sweetness and pleasure that the speaker seeks. The blackberry is described as “a dark wound / Sweetness that tasted like the deep sound / Of once-voiceless things before the world / Was made,” emphasizing the idea that desire is rooted in a primal, pre-linguistic state of being.
Finally, the poem’s use of the “I” and “you” pronouns also serves as a symbolic representation of the speaker’s desire. The speaker constantly addresses an unnamed “you,” who represents the object of the speaker’s desire. The use of the second person pronoun creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, as if the speaker is speaking directly to the reader.
Overall, the use of symbolism in “The Want Bone” adds depth and complexity to the poem’s exploration of desire and longing. Through the use of these symbols, Pinsky creates a rich and evocative portrait of the human experience.
Interpretation of the Opening Lines
The opening lines of “The Want Bone” by Robert Pinsky set the tone for the entire poem. The first line, “The tongue of the waves tolled in the earth’s bell,” creates a sense of movement and sound. The use of the word “tolled” suggests a mournful tone, as if the waves are tolling a funeral bell. The second line, “Hungry man is tightened to a womb,” introduces the theme of desire and longing. The word “hungry” implies a deep need, while “tightened to a womb” suggests a sense of confinement or restriction. Together, these lines create a sense of tension and anticipation, setting the stage for the rest of the poem.
Meaning of the Phrase “The Want Bone”
The phrase “the want bone” is a metaphorical expression that refers to the human desire for something that is unattainable or difficult to obtain. It is a term that has been used in literature and poetry for centuries, and it has come to represent the human condition of longing and yearning for something that is just out of reach. In his poem “The Want Bone,” Robert Pinsky explores this theme in depth, using vivid imagery and powerful language to convey the complex emotions that are associated with the concept of desire. Through his poetic analysis, Pinsky invites readers to reflect on their own experiences of longing and to consider the ways in which this fundamental human impulse shapes our lives and our relationships with others.
Discussion of the Poem’s Imagery
The imagery in “The Want Bone” is rich and varied, with Pinsky using a range of metaphors and symbols to convey his message. One of the most striking images in the poem is that of the want bone itself, which serves as a powerful symbol of desire and longing. Pinsky describes the bone as “the forked thing that persists / in any closet long after the rest is gone,” suggesting that our desires are always with us, even when everything else has been stripped away.
Another important image in the poem is that of the “blackberry briars,” which Pinsky uses to represent the obstacles and challenges that we must overcome in order to achieve our desires. The briars are described as “thick as thumbs,” suggesting that they are formidable and difficult to navigate. However, Pinsky also suggests that these obstacles can be overcome with persistence and determination, as he writes that “the briars / hook hard, and scratch like cats; / it can be done.”
Overall, the imagery in “The Want Bone” is both vivid and evocative, helping to bring Pinsky’s message to life in a powerful and memorable way. Whether he is describing the want bone itself or the blackberry briars that stand in our way, Pinsky’s use of metaphor and symbolism is both effective and thought-provoking, inviting readers to reflect on their own desires and the obstacles they must overcome to achieve them.
Analysis of the Poem’s Tone
The tone of Robert Pinsky’s poem “The Want Bone” is one of longing and desire. The speaker is searching for something that they cannot quite name, but they know they need it desperately. This is evident in lines such as “I want to call myself beloved” and “I want to be the mirror for your eyes.” The repetition of the phrase “I want” emphasizes the speaker’s yearning and creates a sense of urgency. Additionally, the use of vivid imagery, such as “the want bone itself” and “the blue-gray beautiful sky,” adds to the emotional intensity of the poem. Overall, the tone of “The Want Bone” is one of intense longing and desire, which is conveyed through the speaker’s words and the vivid imagery used throughout the poem.
Use of Language in “The Want Bone”
In “The Want Bone,” Robert Pinsky uses language to create a vivid and sensory experience for the reader. The poem is filled with rich imagery and metaphors that evoke a sense of longing and desire. For example, the line “I want to be the hewn and lithe / Sailboat whose mast is stepped in gold” paints a picture of a sleek and elegant vessel, while also suggesting a desire for wealth and luxury.
Pinsky also employs repetition and alliteration to create a musical quality to the poem. The repeated use of the word “want” emphasizes the speaker’s yearning, while the alliteration in phrases like “the want bone / the tall-grass bone” adds a rhythmic quality to the language.
Additionally, Pinsky uses language to explore the theme of mortality and the passage of time. The line “I want to be the sunflower, / Bees holding onto the open face” suggests a desire for immortality, while also acknowledging the fleeting nature of life.
Overall, Pinsky’s use of language in “The Want Bone” is both evocative and thought-provoking, inviting the reader to contemplate the complexities of desire and the human experience.
The Relationship Between the Speaker and the Addressee
In Robert Pinsky’s poem “The Want Bone,” the relationship between the speaker and the addressee is complex and multifaceted. At times, the speaker seems to be addressing a specific person, perhaps a lover or a friend, while at other times the addressee seems to be a more general audience. This ambiguity is intentional, as Pinsky uses the shifting relationship between the speaker and the addressee to explore themes of desire, longing, and the human condition. Throughout the poem, the speaker’s voice is both intimate and universal, inviting the reader to share in the speaker’s yearning for connection and meaning. Ultimately, the relationship between the speaker and the addressee is one of mutual vulnerability and shared humanity, as both seek to understand and navigate the complexities of the human experience.
Comparison to Other Poems by Robert Pinsky
In comparison to other poems by Robert Pinsky, “The Want Bone” stands out for its use of vivid imagery and metaphorical language. While Pinsky’s other works often explore themes of memory and identity, “The Want Bone” delves into the complexities of desire and longing. The poem’s central metaphor of the want bone, a bone found in birds that is believed to give them the desire to fly, is a powerful symbol for the human desire to achieve our dreams and aspirations. Pinsky’s use of language is also notable in this poem, with phrases like “the want bone itself” and “the bird’s desire” creating a sense of urgency and intensity. Overall, “The Want Bone” is a standout work in Pinsky’s oeuvre, showcasing his skill at crafting powerful and evocative poetry.
Relevance of “The Want Bone” to Contemporary Society
“The Want Bone” by Robert Pinsky is a poem that explores the human desire for more, and the consequences that come with it. In today’s society, where consumerism and materialism are rampant, this poem is more relevant than ever. The poem speaks to the idea that we are never satisfied with what we have, and that we always want more. This insatiable desire for more can lead to a never-ending cycle of wanting, which can ultimately lead to our downfall. The poem also touches on the idea that we often sacrifice our own happiness and well-being in pursuit of our desires. This is a common theme in contemporary society, where people are willing to work long hours and sacrifice their personal lives in order to achieve success. Overall, “The Want Bone” is a powerful reminder of the dangers of excessive desire, and the importance of finding contentment in what we already have.
Exploration of the Poem’s Ambiguity
The Want Bone by Robert Pinsky is a poem that is rich in ambiguity. The poem is a complex exploration of the human psyche and the various desires that drive us. The poem is full of metaphors and symbols that are open to interpretation, making it a challenging but rewarding read. One of the most striking aspects of the poem is its use of the want bone as a metaphor for desire. The want bone is a part of the chicken that is said to hold the bird’s desire. In the poem, the want bone is used to represent the various desires that drive us, from the desire for love and companionship to the desire for power and control. The ambiguity of the poem lies in the fact that it is not always clear what these desires are or how they are related to each other. The poem is full of contradictions and paradoxes, which only add to its complexity. Overall, the exploration of the poem’s ambiguity is a fascinating journey that requires careful attention to detail and a willingness to embrace the unknown.
Analysis of the Poem’s Conclusion
The conclusion of “The Want Bone” by Robert Pinsky is a powerful and thought-provoking moment in the poem. The final lines, “The thing you carried / A shining, hammered, dulled, enchanted thing / Called it the want bone. / And it sang. / I want, I want,” leave the reader with a sense of longing and desire.
The repetition of “I want, I want” emphasizes the speaker’s desire for something that they cannot have. The use of the word “enchanted” suggests that this desire is not just a passing fancy, but something that has a hold on the speaker’s heart and mind.
The image of the “want bone” is also significant. It suggests that this desire is not just a mental or emotional state, but something physical, something that the speaker can feel in their bones. The fact that the bone is “shining, hammered, dulled” suggests that this desire is both beautiful and painful, something that the speaker both cherishes and suffers from.
Overall, the conclusion of “The Want Bone” is a powerful and haunting moment in the poem. It leaves the reader with a sense of the speaker’s deep longing and desire, and the pain and beauty that come with it.
Discussion of the Poem’s Emotional Impact on the Reader
The emotional impact of “The Want Bone” on the reader is profound and complex. The poem explores themes of desire, loss, and the human condition, all of which resonate deeply with readers. Pinsky’s use of vivid imagery and metaphor creates a visceral response in the reader, evoking a sense of longing and yearning that is both universal and deeply personal. The poem’s final lines, “I want to be the hewn and lithe / Sailboat, and I want to be the horse,” leave the reader with a sense of both hope and despair, as they grapple with the complexities of their own desires and the limitations of their own mortality. Overall, “The Want Bone” is a powerful and thought-provoking poem that leaves a lasting emotional impact on its readers.
Significance of the Poem’s Title in Relation to the Poem Itself
The title of a poem is often the first thing that a reader encounters, and it can set the tone for the entire work. In the case of Robert Pinsky’s “The Want Bone,” the title is particularly significant in relation to the poem itself. The “want bone” is a term used to describe the furcula, a forked bone found in birds that is believed to grant wishes when broken. This bone is often associated with desire and longing, which are central themes in Pinsky’s poem. The title also suggests a sense of fragility and vulnerability, as the furcula is a delicate bone that can easily be broken. This idea of fragility is echoed throughout the poem, which explores the fleeting nature of desire and the inevitability of loss. Overall, the title of “The Want Bone” serves as a fitting introduction to the poem’s themes and imagery, and it helps to establish the tone and mood of the work.