Mule Song

By A. R. Ammons

Elegy
Silver will lie where she lies sun-out, whatever turning the world does, longeared in her ashen, earless, floating world: indifferent to sores and greengage colic, where oats need not come to, bleached by crystals of her trembling time: beyond all brunt of seasons, blind forever to all blinds, inhabited by brooks still she may wraith over broken fields after winter or roll in the rye-green fields: old mule, no defense but a mules against disease, large-ribbed, flat-toothed, sold to a stranger, shot by a strangers hand, not my hand she nuzzled the seasoning-salt from.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
In this piece, the poet employs vivid, evocative imagery and a reflective tone to explore themes of mortality, inevitability, and a deep, personal bond with the natural world. The poem is dedicated to a mule, Silver, and the narrative voice is filled with a tender affection and regret.

The poem's structure is freeform, and its language is rich with sensory details and metaphors. The use of phrases such as "longeared in her ashen, earless, / floating world" and "bleached by crystals of her trembling time" explicitly reveal the poet's skill in creating an immersive and emotional engagement with the reader. The reference to Silver as "old mule, no defense but a mule's against / disease, large-ribbed, / flat-toothed" is a poignant commentary on the vulnerability and inevitability of life's journey, particularly as it pertains to aging and decay.

The poet's decision to keep the narrative voice personal and direct, particularly in the concluding line, "not my hand she nuzzled the seasoning-salt from," adds a layer of intimate connection and lamentation. It suggests a personal relationship between the speaker and Silver, hinting at a shared past filled with close companionship. This detail, along with the overall tone and the effective use of language, makes the poem a poignant reflection on the cycle of life and the bonds between humans and the natural world.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.