[Ttha-potm] POTM "In a Museum": Nov 2008

[WILLIAM NEEDHAM]

“Is the source of satire necessarily from bitter disenchantment...?” Carolyn [28 Nov] 
Carolyn, I remember hesitating before I wrote “bitter” -- I'd rejected “biting”. I take both “Heredity” and “Drinking Song” to be grossly author-centred, born of the weariness and frustration of virtually a lifetime's wrestling distressingly with irreconcilables. There's obviously rage behind both poems. 
With this month's “In a Museum” we have again an author-centred poem. This time, however, Hardy has been able to find respite by conjuring up a ' scheme of things' wholly congruent--albeit a dream-- with his deep desires. We see the see the construction of this ideal celestial home at every stage. To me it clanks, and it's hopelessly unreal. In my view it bears no comparison with the living breath of  “In a Whispering Gallery”. 
Loved your posting.
Best wishes,
Bill


      
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