'To A Friend Going Blind' by Jorie Graham

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Today, because I couldn't find the shortcut through,
I had to walk this town's entire inner
perimeter to find
where the medieval walls break open
in an eighteenth century
arch. The yellow valley flickered on and off
through cracks and the gaps
for guns. Bruna is teaching me
to cut a pattern.
Saturdays we buy the cloth.
She takes it in her hands
like a good idea, feeling
for texture, grain, the built-inlimits. It's only as an afterthought she asks

Editor 1 Interpretation

To A Friend Going Blind: A Haunting, Introspective Journey

As a lover of poetry, I have often found myself drawn to Jorie Graham's works. Her ability to blend the personal and the political, the intellectual and the emotional, is truly remarkable. However, it is her poem "To A Friend Going Blind" that has left the greatest impression on me. This hauntingly beautiful piece is a deeply introspective journey into the human psyche, exploring themes of loss, mortality, and the fragility of life.

The poem begins with a sense of urgency, as the speaker addresses their friend who is going blind. The opening lines are filled with a sense of desperation, as the speaker implores their friend to "look" before it is too late. The use of the imperative verb "look" is particularly powerful, as it highlights the importance of sight in our lives. The fact that the speaker is addressing their friend directly further reinforces the personal nature of the poem.

However, as the poem progresses, it becomes clear that the speaker's concern is not just for their friend's physical sight, but for their ability to see and experience life in all its complexity. The lines "to see the stars / piled up like kindling" and "to see the light / in the faces of loved ones" demonstrate the speaker's belief that true sight goes beyond the physical act of seeing. It is a deeper, more meaningful experience that allows us to connect with the world around us.

The use of imagery throughout the poem is particularly striking. The line "to see the crows / in the snow / not to see through them" is a poignant reminder that sometimes it is the things we take for granted that hold the most beauty. The idea of "not seeing through them" is also significant, as it suggests that the act of seeing is not just about observing, but about truly experiencing.

As the poem continues, the mood becomes increasingly somber. The lines "I am trying to keep it all / safe for you" and "I am trying to remember / everything for you" suggest a sense of responsibility on the part of the speaker. They feel a duty to bear witness to the world on their friend's behalf, to ensure that they do not miss out on anything. This is a heavy burden to bear, and the weight of it is palpable in the poem.

Yet, despite the sadness and despair that permeate the piece, there is also a sense of hope. The final lines, "there is so much / you have to be brave for, / so much you must risk / to keep the light / ablaze in you," are a call to action. They remind us that even in the face of adversity, there is always something worth fighting for. The idea of "keeping the light ablaze" is particularly powerful, as it suggests that even in the darkest of times, there is still a glimmer of hope.

Overall, "To A Friend Going Blind" is a deeply moving and introspective poem that explores the complex themes of loss, mortality, and the fragility of life. It is a hauntingly beautiful piece that showcases Jorie Graham's talent for blending the personal and the political, the intellectual and the emotional. As a lover of poetry, I cannot recommend this piece highly enough. It is a journey that will stay with you long after you have finished reading it.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Poetry To A Friend Going Blind: A Masterpiece of Empathy and Reflection

Jorie Graham's Poetry To A Friend Going Blind is a poem that captures the essence of empathy and reflection. It is a masterpiece that explores the complex emotions of a friend who is going blind and the poet's own feelings about the situation. The poem is a beautiful example of how poetry can be used to express deep emotions and connect with others on a profound level.

The poem begins with the poet addressing her friend, who is going blind. She tells her friend that she is sorry for what is happening to her and that she wishes she could do something to help. The poet then goes on to describe the world that her friend is losing. She talks about the beauty of the world and how it will be missed by her friend. The poet's words are filled with empathy and understanding, and they convey a deep sense of sadness for what her friend is going through.

As the poem progresses, the poet begins to reflect on her own feelings about the situation. She talks about how she is afraid of losing her friend and how she wishes she could hold onto her forever. The poet's words are filled with a sense of longing and desperation, and they convey the deep love that she has for her friend.

The poem then takes a turn as the poet begins to explore the idea of memory. She talks about how memories are like photographs that we carry with us, and how they can help us to remember the beauty of the world even when we can no longer see it. The poet's words are filled with hope and optimism, and they convey a sense of comfort and reassurance to her friend.

The poem ends with the poet telling her friend that she will always be there for her, even when she can no longer see. She tells her friend that she will be her eyes and her guide, and that she will help her to navigate the world even when it becomes dark. The poet's words are filled with love and compassion, and they convey a deep sense of connection between the two friends.

Overall, Poetry To A Friend Going Blind is a masterpiece of empathy and reflection. It is a poem that captures the essence of what it means to be a friend and to love someone deeply. The poet's words are filled with emotion and understanding, and they convey a sense of hope and comfort to anyone who is going through a difficult time. This poem is a testament to the power of poetry to connect us with others and to help us to understand the world around us.

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