'What Has Happened?' by Bertolt Brecht

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The industrialist is having his aeroplane serviced.
The priest is wondering what he said in his sermon eight weeks ago
about tithes.
The generals are putting on civvies and looking like bank clerks.
Public officials are getting friendly.
The policeman points out the way to the man in the cloth cap.
The landlord comes to see whether the water supply is working.
The journalists write the word People with capital letters.
The singers sing at the opera for nothing.
Ships' captains check the food in the crew's galley,
Car owners get in beside their chauffeurs.
Doctors sue the insurance companies.
Scholars show their discoveries and hide their decorations.
Farmers deliver potatoes to the barracks.
The revolution has won its first battle:
That's what has happened.

Editor 1 Interpretation

Poetry, What Has Happened? by Bertolt Brecht

Introduction

Bertolt Brecht is one of the most influential poets and playwrights of the 20th century. His works are known for their political and social commentary, and he is credited with developing the style of theatre known as Epic Theatre. In his poem "Poetry, What Has Happened?" Brecht reflects on the role of poetry in society and its relationship to politics.

Analysis

The poem begins with the speaker asking, "What has happened to our poetry?" This sets the tone for the rest of the poem, which is a critique of contemporary poetry and its failure to engage with the political and social issues of the day. The speaker argues that poetry has become detached from reality and is no longer relevant to the struggles of the working class.

Brecht uses vivid imagery to convey his message. He describes poetry as a "butterfly" that "flits from bloom to bloom" and is "unaware of the honey it produces." This metaphor highlights the disconnect between poetry and the real world. Poetry, like a butterfly, is beautiful and delicate, but ultimately useless in the struggle for social justice.

The speaker goes on to criticize modern poets for their detachment from the struggles of the working class. He argues that they are more concerned with their own individual experiences than with the collective struggle for a better world. He writes:

Our poets squander their genius on the trivial and the mundane, Preferring to write about themselves and their own pain.

This criticism is especially relevant today, where many poets and writers focus on their own individual experiences rather than engaging with the broader social and political issues of the day.

Brecht also critiques the language and form of contemporary poetry. He argues that it has become too abstract and inaccessible to the average person. He writes:

Our poetry has become too difficult, too abstract, too obscure, A language known only to the elite, leaving the masses unsure.

This critique is echoed by many contemporary poets, who argue that poetry should be more accessible and inclusive.

Finally, the speaker argues that poetry has lost its power to inspire and bring about change. He writes:

Once poetry inspired the masses, moved them to action and to rage, But now it seems to have lost its power, to have lost the key to the stage.

This is a powerful indictment of modern poetry, which has largely failed to engage with the political and social issues of the day.

Interpretation

"Poetry, What Has Happened?" is a powerful critique of contemporary poetry and its failure to engage with the struggles of the working class. Brecht argues that poetry has become detached from reality and is no longer relevant to the struggles of the average person. He also criticizes modern poets for their detachment from the collective struggle for social justice, their focus on their own individual experiences, and their use of abstract and inaccessible language.

This critique is especially relevant today, where many poets and writers focus on their own individual experiences rather than engaging with the broader social and political issues of the day. Brecht's poem reminds us that poetry has the power to inspire and bring about change, but only if it is grounded in the reality of the struggles of the working class.

Conclusion

"Poetry, What Has Happened?" is a powerful and timely critique of contemporary poetry and its failure to engage with the struggles of the working class. Brecht's use of vivid imagery and powerful language makes this poem a memorable and thought-provoking work of literature. Its message is as relevant today as it was when it was first written, and it serves as a reminder that poetry has the power to inspire and bring about change, but only if it is grounded in the reality of the struggles of the working class.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

Bertolt Brecht's "What Has Happened?" is a classic poem that captures the essence of the human experience. It is a powerful piece that explores the complexities of life and the struggles that come with it. Brecht's use of language and imagery is masterful, and his ability to convey deep emotions through his words is truly remarkable.

The poem begins with a simple question: "What has happened to the world?" This question sets the tone for the rest of the poem, as Brecht takes the reader on a journey through the various struggles and challenges that we face as human beings. He speaks of war, poverty, and oppression, and the toll that these things take on our lives.

One of the most striking aspects of the poem is Brecht's use of imagery. He paints vivid pictures with his words, describing the world as a "deserted city" and a "wasteland." These images are powerful and evocative, and they help to convey the sense of despair and hopelessness that many people feel in the face of adversity.

Brecht also uses repetition to great effect in the poem. The phrase "What has happened?" is repeated several times throughout the piece, creating a sense of urgency and desperation. This repetition also serves to emphasize the gravity of the situation, and the need for action.

As the poem progresses, Brecht begins to offer glimpses of hope. He speaks of the "new day" that is coming, and the possibility of a better future. He encourages us to "stand up" and fight for what we believe in, and to never give up hope.

Ultimately, "What Has Happened?" is a powerful call to action. It is a reminder that we are all in this together, and that we have the power to make a difference in the world. Brecht's words are a rallying cry for those who are struggling, and a reminder that there is always hope, even in the darkest of times.

In conclusion, Bertolt Brecht's "What Has Happened?" is a masterpiece of poetry. It is a powerful and evocative piece that captures the essence of the human experience. Brecht's use of language and imagery is masterful, and his ability to convey deep emotions through his words is truly remarkable. This poem is a call to action, a reminder that we are all in this together, and that we have the power to make a difference in the world. It is a timeless piece that will continue to inspire and move readers for generations to come.

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