The main characters of the most read books - Sykalo Eugen 2024

Delving Deep Within: A Character Analysis of the Speaker in “Diving into the Wreck”

Adrienne Rich's "Diving into the Wreck" is a profound exploration of self-discovery disguised as a thrilling underwater descent. While there are no named characters, the poem revolves entirely around the speaker, a woman embarking on a metaphorical and literal journey into the depths. Through her meticulous preparations, introspective observations, and evolving perspective, Rich crafts a complex character determined to unearth the hidden truths of her identity and history.

The speaker's character is established from the outset through her actions. The lines, "I have read the book of myths" (Line 1), suggest a deliberate approach to the dive. This "book of myths" can be interpreted as traditional narratives or societal expectations, particularly for women. Reading it signifies a conscious effort to understand the existing framework before venturing beyond it. The act of putting on the diving gear — "the body-armor of black rubber / the absurd flippers / the grave and awkward mask" (Lines 3-5) — becomes a symbolic shedding of her conventional self. The equipment both empowers and isolates her, highlighting the solitary nature of her quest.

As the speaker descends, her focus shifts inward. Lines like, "I am / trying to learn the kelp-language" (Lines 11-12) reveal a desire to connect with something deeper than human constructs. The "kelp-language" symbolizes a forgotten or silenced history, a realm beyond the limitations of words. This yearning for deeper understanding underscores the speaker's dissatisfaction with the surface and her determination to explore the complexities that lie beneath.

The speaker confronts the wreck itself with a mix of curiosity and trepidation. She describes it as "what has been hidden away / from the reign of the daylight" (Lines 21-22), hinting at a buried past or a suppressed aspect of her identity. The act of entering the wreck — "I am the only diver" (Line 25) — further emphasizes the solitary nature of her exploration. This isolation, however, grants her agency. She is no longer bound by external expectations; she is free to confront the wreck on her own terms.

The poem takes a significant turn when the speaker discovers another figure within the wreck. The lines, "a thing encrusted with barnacles / fastened to a lug / holding a mirror" (Lines 33-35), introduce a potential symbol of self-reflection. The "mirror" compels the speaker to confront not just the wreck's secrets, but also her own. This encounter suggests that the journey of self-discovery is not just about the past, but also about a more complete understanding of oneself in the present.

The poem concludes with a powerful image of unity: "we are the pearls that were held in the oysters that are dead" (Line 42). This line suggests that the speaker has not only unearthed the past but has also discovered a sense of connection to something larger than herself. The "we" signifies a potential solidarity with other women who have grappled with similar challenges or a recognition of the shared human experience.

In conclusion, the unnamed speaker in "Diving into the Wreck" is a compelling character driven by a desire for self-discovery. Through her meticulous preparation, introspective observations, and evolving perspective, Rich crafts a woman who is both courageous and vulnerable. The speaker's journey is not just about the literal wreck, but also about confronting the complexities of her identity and history. In the end, she emerges with a newfound understanding of herself and a sense of connection to a larger narrative.