American literature essay. Literary analysis of works and characters - Sykalo Evgen 2023

White Shroud Poems: Facing Mortality with Grace
Allen Ginsberg

Few poets have approached mortality and the truth of death with the grace and candor that Allen Ginsberg did. His 1986 collection of poems, "White Shroud Poems," is evidence of both his abiding love for his mother, Naomi Ginsberg, and his acceptance of his own mortality. The poems are filled with a sense of acceptance and sadness as Ginsberg considers his own aging body, the passing of time, and the life of his mother.

The eerie white shroud

The term alone conjures up a gloomy picture of death's shroud, signifying everyone's impending demise. Throughout the collection, Ginsberg regularly uses the image of the shroud to symbolize the passing of time and the frailty of life.

"White Shroud Poems" explores a number of important topics, including the Buddhist idea of impermanence. As a lifelong Buddhist, Ginsberg had a profound understanding of the transient nature of existence and the significance of embracing change. He composes:

"Nothing in the universe lasts forever, everything changes, everything dies, it's all impermanent, it's all a dream."

Ginsberg is able to face death with serenity and acceptance rather than terror thanks to his understanding of impermanence. Rather than viewing it as a conclusion, he views it as a normal aspect of the life-death cycle.

Keeping Mother's Memory Alive:

Ginsberg shows his love and affection for his mother throughout the book. He depicts her life, her hardships, and her unshakable love for him with such tenderness. He also struggles to express the depth of his grief upon her passing, writing:

"My mother is dead, she's gone, she's just a memory now, a ghost in my mind, a feeling in my heart."

Ginsberg takes comfort from the memories he cherishes, even if he misses her. By narrating tales, offering anecdotes, and expressing his appreciation for her presence, he honors her life.

The Influence of Being Present:

Ginsberg challenges us to find contentment and significance in the here and now, despite our mortality. He composes:

"Don't waste your time dwelling on the past, or worrying about the future, live in the present moment, that's all you have."

Throughout the book, there is a recurring theme of living completely in the now, which serves as a counterbalance to thoughts of dying. Ginsberg encourages us to appreciate the present and discover beauty in the ordinary by emphasizing the transient nature of life.

A History of Love and Acceptance:

"White Shroud Poems" is a potent and poignant illustration of the human predicament. It serves as a reminder that although we are all mortal, we still have the ability to live lives that are meaningful and fulfilling. Ginsberg ends with these inspirational and hopeful words:

"May we all find peace in our hearts, and may we all be free from suffering."

Ginsberg leaves us with a rich legacy of love, acceptance, and the enduring strength of the human spirit by facing death with grace and acknowledging the transience of life.

To sum up:

The "White Shroud Poems" by Allen Ginsberg are a commentary on life itself rather than only a compendium of poetry about dying. The book presents a profound and profoundly emotional examination of the human experience through its poignant musings on mortality, grief, and the power of love. Ginsberg's remarks serve as a gentle reminder to embrace impermanence, treasure the passing moments in life, and make the most of every day. May his message of bravery, acceptance, and love keep us all inspired as we confront our own mortality.