Analysis of the Poem "I See You Dancing Father" by Brendan Kennelly
Kennelly undoubtedly instills his poetry with both thought provoking and intriguing topics, that truly allow the reader to see the affection and care he has for his subject. For the most part, this is done through a relaxed, carefree and positive manner. On occasion however, Kennelly does change the tone within his poetry to reflect an ominous and distressing landscape. Personally, this emphasizes the need for the reader to recognize the polarizing tones of optimism and pessimism. Within all of the poetry I’ve studied by Kennelly, such as Oliver to his Brother, I See You Dancing Father and Begin, amongst many others, optimism wins out. So, let`s research one of my favorite poems in "I See You Dancing Father by Brendan Kennelly Sample Essay".
Kennelly dedicates a lot of his poetry toward the concept of family. The upbeat, I See You Dancing Father showcases the affection and love that Kennelly had for his late father. The poem utilizes a melodic rhythm and caring tone throughout showcasing the creativity and intellect of Kennelly. The sense of rhythm is vital to both Kennelly as the poet, and as a son remembering his father dancing. One cannot help but be impressed by the sense of onomatopoeia generated by Kennelly as he envisions his father dancing to his own tune. ‘And as you danced, you whistled. You made your own music.’ The tone darkens slightly as Kennelly recognizes that this man was not the same man who passed away, ‘Mind and body broken.’ Kennelly refuses to finish his memories this way and instead takes the reader to the finale with a beautiful image and phrase. ‘In the time I have to spare I see you dancing, father.’ On a similar note, we see the concept of family being explored with great intrigue in Oliver to his Brother. Knowing the history of Cromwell and his actions within this country, Kennelly takes a bold step and attempts to humanize a figure renowned for such pessimism and negativity. This is not to say, Kennelly doesn’t create an insight into an atmosphere of foreboding and dread that Cromwell brings about, but the concept of highlighting Cromwell as a man full of heart and loyalty for his family, is truly a genius step.
The poem introduces us to Cromwell composing a letter in a truly relaxed and loving manner: ‘Loving brother, I am glad to hear of your welfare.’ Unlike I see you Dancing Father which touches on an air of pessimism but ultimately ends in resounding happiness, Oliver to his Brother shows Kennelly taking a different approach. Cromwell has nothing but hopes and dreams for his family, showing a lot of trust to his brother. ‘I hope you counsel him, he will need it.’ The uplifting nature of Cromwell’s letter to his brother is undoubtedly a creation worth being proud of. The letter is indicative of the type of poet Kennelly is, unafraid to show emotion and deeply intellectual in his approach. Of course this lends itself to the fantastic techniques Kennelly has in his arsenal, such as personification.
