"Constantly Risking Absurdity"

Paper Summary:

This paper analyzes Lawrence Ferlinghetti's poem, "Constantly Risking Absurdity", noting that the simile used in the poem, 'the poet is like an acrobat', emphasizes that the whole poem is a metaphor comparing a poet to an acrobat. The paper then goes on to discuss various elements of the poem including the use of free verse, and irregular words and sounds across the verses. The paper also notes that the poem uses short lines and that it is a challenge to read. The paper explains that this challenge relates to the theme of the poem and is similar to the process of writing a poem.

From the Paper:

"The poet-figure is characterised throughout the poem. As the acrobat performs his tricks we discover the similarities between the poet and him. The line 'climbs on rhyme' expresses how a poet uses rhyme to link his lines as he climbs down the poem, while an acrobat climbs a ladder to perform his tricks. The poet-figure is 'balancing on eyebeams'. The poet and the acrobat rely on their audience's recognition. The audience's gaze keeps the acrobat in the air and the poet's admires keeps his spirits high. The line 'paces his way' emphasises how cautious poets and acrobats need to be in their professions. An acrobat has to pace himself as he crosses the tightrope and a poet can definitely not rush through the poetry process."

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