"Litany" by John Ashbery: An Exploration of Time, Reality, and Uncertainty

Exploring the Structure of "Litany" by John Ashbery

"Litany" is a poem by John Ashbery that appears in his 1979 collection "As We Know." The poem is notable for its unconventional structure, consisting of two columns meant to be read as separate yet simultaneous monologues. This format was inspired by a musical composition by Elliott Carter, where Ashbery observed a piano and violin performing in a conversational duet. The dual-column structure of "Litany" serves to disorient the reader, reflecting Ashbery's intent to question the nature of reality and promote an open-minded approach to understanding in a world where certainties are elusive.

The Deliberate Ambiguity in "Litany"

John Ashbery's "Litany" is characterized by its deliberate ambiguity, with a style marked by fragmentation and sudden shifts in tone. This approach is influenced by abstract expressionism, which values the freedom and spontaneity of nonrepresentational art. The poem eschews linear thought, favoring a dream-like stream of consciousness that defies straightforward interpretation. The two voices in the poem, intended to be read in tandem, often veer into separate contemplations, challenging the reader with their lack of a cohesive structure. This complexity is a hallmark of Ashbery's postmodernist style, which subverts literary norms to expand the possibilities of poetic expression.

Interpreting the Title "Litany"

The title "Litany" traditionally refers to a form of prayer consisting of a series of invocations or supplications in Christian worship, often with a congregational response. Ashbery's choice of title is ironic, as his poem diverges from the predictable call-and-response structure of a litany. Instead, the two columns of the poem sporadically mirror each other but more frequently introduce disparate thoughts. This deviation prompts readers to reevaluate their assumptions about truth and suggests that consciousness is a continuous struggle to comprehend a mutable reality, rather than a series of rote recitations.

Contemplating Time and Consciousness in "Litany"

In "Litany," John Ashbery delves into the themes of time and consciousness, examining the multifaceted nature of time as it relates to experience, history, and mortality. The poem contemplates the relentless progression of time and its impact on human existence, from the cyclical changes in nature to the persistence of memory. Both voices in the poem recognize time as the sole constant, with one equating death to an insatiable hunger for time. This focus on temporality emphasizes the poem's underlying message that life is inherently uncertain and the quest for absolute truth is ultimately exhausting and unattainable.

Analyzing the Dual Voices of the Poem

The interaction between the two voices in "Litany" is central to its interpretation. The dynamic between the speakers is intentionally ambiguous, leaving it unclear whether they are engaging with each other or exist as separate voices. The structure, which includes occasional solitary lines and intermingled thoughts, creates a sense of disordered harmony. This interplay, coupled with the poem's fluctuation between reality and imagination, underscores the theme that existence is fraught with uncertainty and that the search for a single, definitive truth is inherently unstable.

Conclusion: The Lasting Influence of "Litany"

"Litany" by John Ashbery stands as an influential piece in American poetry, celebrated for its inventive form and its capacity to provoke deep reflection. The poem's challenge to conventional thought and its embrace of indeterminacy have elicited both acclaim and debate within the literary community. Ashbery's approach to poetry, characterized by its enigmatic nature and resistance to simple analysis, encourages readers to interact with literature in innovative and nontraditional ways. "Litany" is a testament to Ashbery's enduring impact as a poet who boldly questioned the foundations of truth and knowledge, making a significant contribution to the postmodern literary canon.