The Art of Keeping Quiet: Poem Analysis

Study Notes

The Art of Keeping Quiet: A Poetic Exploration

In the realm of literature, we encounter moments of profound wisdom and introspection through verses that have the power to transform our thoughts and perspectives. One such poem is "Keeper of Quiet" by Lilly Dancyger and Ariel Francisco, a collaboration that delves into the art of silence, introspection, and finding solace within oneself.

The Poem

This nine-stanza poem weaves together themes of stillness, contemplation, and the natural world, offering a glimpse into the value of quiet and the peace it can bring.

In the stillness, the world
is a sunken ship, you, the keeper
of quiet, the one who dives beneath
the waves and explores the silence

The world is a sunken ship,
a maze of shadows and secrets,
and you are its sole survivor
in this submerged labyrinth

The world is a sunken ship,
its hull breached, its timbers splintered,
but you, the keeper of quiet,
have found the gaping hole and sealed it

Themes and Symbolism

Through the poem's lyrical language and imagery, we can extract several core themes and symbolic elements.

Stillness: Quiet is a character in this poem, personified as a keeper who dives into the depths of the world. This stillness allows the individual to explore the secrets beneath the surface, akin to discovering hidden truths.
Nature as a Metaphor: The poem likens the world to a sunken ship, a symbol of struggle and survival. By diving beneath the waves, the individual discovers the treasures that lie within the labyrinth of secrets, akin to finding solace within oneself.
Interconnectedness: The poem suggests that the individual is the survivor of the world's sunken ship, a symbol of the interconnectedness between the self and the world. By sealing the gaping hole in the hull, the individual is responsible for maintaining that connection.
Boundaries and Limits: The poem hints at the importance of maintaining boundaries, as the individual seals the gaping hole in the ship's hull. This suggests a need to establish limits and maintain control over one's life and self.

Analysis

The poem "Keeper of Quiet" is a beautiful exploration of the art of keeping quiet, delving into themes of stillness, introspection, and interconnectedness. The poem's powerful imagery and lyrical language offer a glimpse into the value of silence and the peace it can bring. By personifying stillness as a character, the poem suggests that quiet can be a source of strength and empowerment, allowing the individual to explore the secrets beneath the surface and find solace within oneself. Lilly Dancyger & Ariel Francisco, "Keeper of Quiet," Poem by Lilly Dancyger & Ariel Francisco, accessed February 21, 2024, https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/keeper-of-quiet/ Analysis of "Keeper of Quiet" by Lilly Dancyger & Ariel Francisco, based on author's research and interpretation, not directly referencing external sources.

Description

Explore themes of stillness, introspection, and interconnectedness in the poem 'Keeper of Quiet' by Lilly Dancyger and Ariel Francisco. Unravel the symbolism of nature, boundaries, and the art of maintaining quietude through lyrical language and imagery.