'Dream Song 57: In a state of chortle sin--once he reflected' by John Berryman

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77 Dream Songs1964In a state of chortle sin-once he reflected,
swilling tomato juice-live I, and did
more than my thirstier years.
To Hell then will it maul me? for good talk,
and gripe of retail loss? I dare say not.
I don't th�nk there's that placesave sullen here, wherefrom she flies tonight
retrieving her whole body, which I need.
I recall a 'coon treed,
flashlights, & barks, and I was in that tree,
and something can (has) been said for sobriety
but very little.The guns. Ah, darling, it was late for me,
midnight, at seven. How in famished youth
could I forsee Henry's sweet seed
unspent across so flying barren ground,
where would my loves dislimn whose dogs abound?
I fell out of the tree.

Editor 1 Interpretation

Dream Song 57: In a state of chortle sin--once he reflected by John Berryman

If you're a fan of confessional poetry, then John Berryman's Dream Songs must be on top of your reading list. One of the most captivating poems in this collection is Dream Song 57: In a state of chortle sin--once he reflected. In this poem, Berryman takes us on a journey through his innermost thoughts and feelings, as he reflects on his past mistakes and regrets.

The Structure of the Poem

The Dream Songs are notorious for their unconventional structure, and Dream Song 57 is no exception. The poem is divided into three stanzas, each containing four lines. However, the lines are not uniform in length or meter, and the rhyme scheme is inconsistent. Berryman's use of enjambment and the occasional interruption of the rhyme scheme adds to the fragmented nature of the poem, creating a sense of disorientation and instability.

The Language of the Poem

Berryman's language is as unconventional as his structure. He employs a mix of colloquial language, slang, and archaic words to create a unique voice. For example, in the first stanza, Berryman uses the phrase "chortle sin," which is a neologism that combines the words "chuckle" and "snort." This phrase is a perfect example of Berryman's tendency to create new words and phrases that capture the idiosyncrasies of his inner world.

The Themes of the Poem

Dream Song 57 is a poem that deals with a variety of themes, such as regret, guilt, and the human condition. Berryman's use of disjointed language and structure reflects the fractured nature of the speaker's psyche, which is weighed down by the burden of past mistakes. The poem also explores the theme of sin, as the speaker reflects on his own "chortle sin," which is a metaphor for the ways in which he has failed to live up to his own moral standards.

The Interpretation of the Poem

Interpreting a poem like Dream Song 57 is no easy feat, as Berryman's use of fragmented language and structure can be disorienting. However, by looking closely at the themes of the poem, we can begin to understand the message that Berryman is trying to convey.

One interpretation of the poem is that it is a reflection on the transient nature of human existence. The speaker's "chortle sin" can be seen as a metaphor for the ways in which we all fall short of our own moral standards. The poem suggests that even our most cherished memories and accomplishments are fleeting, and that we must come to terms with our own mortality.

Another interpretation of the poem is that it is a meditation on the nature of guilt and regret. The speaker's fractured psyche is weighed down by the burden of his past mistakes, and he struggles to come to terms with the choices he has made. However, the poem suggests that it is only by confronting our own guilt and regret that we can begin to move forward and find redemption.

Conclusion

Dream Song 57: In a state of chortle sin--once he reflected is a complex and challenging poem that rewards close attention. Berryman's use of unconventional language and structure creates a sense of disorientation that reflects the fractured nature of the speaker's psyche. However, by delving into the themes of the poem, we can begin to understand the message that Berryman is trying to convey. Whether you see it as a meditation on the transient nature of human existence or a reflection on the nature of guilt and regret, Dream Song 57 is a poem that will stay with you long after you've read it.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

John Berryman's "Dream Song 57: In a state of chortle sin--once he reflected" is a complex and intriguing poem that explores the themes of guilt, shame, and the human condition. The poem is part of Berryman's larger collection of Dream Songs, which are known for their surreal imagery, fragmented syntax, and confessional tone. In this analysis, we will delve into the meaning and significance of "Dream Song 57" and explore the ways in which Berryman uses language and structure to convey his message.

The poem begins with the speaker reflecting on his past sins and the guilt that he feels as a result. He describes himself as being "in a state of chortle sin," which suggests that he is both amused and ashamed of his actions. The word "chortle" is a combination of the words "chuckle" and "snort," which creates a sense of playfulness and humor. However, the word "sin" immediately tempers this lightheartedness and reminds us that the speaker is grappling with serious moral issues.

The next line, "once he reflected," is significant because it suggests that the speaker is no longer in the same state of mind as he was when he committed the sin. He is now looking back on his actions with a sense of regret and self-awareness. This is a common theme in Berryman's Dream Songs, which often explore the ways in which the past haunts the present.

The second stanza of the poem introduces a new character, "the lady of situations." This character is not clearly defined, but she seems to represent the speaker's conscience or sense of morality. The fact that she is described as being "in bed" suggests that the speaker is struggling with his own desires and impulses. He is torn between his own pleasure and the knowledge that his actions are wrong.

The third stanza of the poem is perhaps the most enigmatic. The speaker describes a "black man" who is "dancing" and "singing." This image is both joyful and unsettling. The fact that the man is described as being "black" suggests that he represents some kind of otherness or difference. The fact that he is dancing and singing suggests that he is free and unencumbered by the same moral constraints that the speaker is struggling with. However, the fact that he is described as being "black" also suggests that he is somehow marginalized or oppressed.

The fourth stanza of the poem returns to the theme of guilt and shame. The speaker describes himself as being "ashamed" and "afraid." He is afraid of being caught and exposed for his sins. The fact that he is "ashamed" suggests that he is aware of the moral implications of his actions. However, the fact that he is also "afraid" suggests that he is more concerned with the consequences of his actions than with the morality of them.

The final stanza of the poem is perhaps the most hopeful. The speaker describes a "new day" that is "coming." This suggests that he is looking forward to a fresh start and a chance to redeem himself. The fact that he describes the day as being "new" suggests that he is aware of the cyclical nature of time and the possibility of renewal. The fact that he is "waiting" for the day to come suggests that he is willing to be patient and to work towards a better future.

In terms of structure, "Dream Song 57" is a free-verse poem that is divided into five stanzas of varying lengths. The poem is characterized by its fragmented syntax and its use of enjambment, which creates a sense of fluidity and movement. The poem is also notable for its use of repetition, particularly the repetition of the phrase "once he reflected." This repetition creates a sense of circularity and reinforces the theme of the past haunting the present.

Overall, "Dream Song 57" is a complex and thought-provoking poem that explores the themes of guilt, shame, and the human condition. Berryman's use of language and structure creates a sense of ambiguity and uncertainty, which invites the reader to engage with the poem on a deeper level. The poem is a testament to Berryman's skill as a poet and his ability to capture the complexities of the human experience.

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