| Denise Levertov is associated with the Black Mountain School of Poetry. She writes very descriptively with her poems, much like Yusef Komunyakaa, who is part of the Jazz Poetry. The context of these two poet's subjects are vastly different. Levertov often writes about everyday circumstances, like in Aware, or events that happen in a quick-paced time frame. Komunyakaa often writes about war and experiences that happen. These types of poems are very descriptive, where he goes back several times to reinforce a specific idea or point. I think Levertov makes her point and moves on through her poems. There are several similarities that I have noticed, too. Both poets make great use of space. They mix up the visual style of their poems, which keeps readers engaged. Also, the concepts they write about are easily grasped and understood by the audience. Levertov and Komunyakaa use free verse. I, personally, feel that Komunyakaa is an easier read because of the subjects he chooses to write about. I feel that I can relate more to the conflicting feels that a war zone would create than how a tree makes sounds. Personification like in the poem Aware is a common devise of Levertov's that adds depth and difficulty to her poems. Others may feel that Komunakaa is harder because of his war oriented poems. This creates a stand off. Their uniqueness creates enough diversity that many readers will be fascinated with these two great poets. |  AWARE by Levertow When I found the door I found the vine leaves speaking among themselves in abundant whispers. My presence made them hush their green breath, embarrassed, the way humans stand up, buttoning their jackets, acting as if they were leaving anyway, as if the conversation had ended just before you arrived. I liked the glimpse I had, though, of their obscure gestures. I liked the sound of such private voices. Next time I'll move like cautious sunlight, open the door by fractions, eavesdrop peacefully. |
