Review: Sonarification (Poems I-XXII)
Sonarification: A Deep Dive into the Heart of Poetry
In the world of contemporary poetry, a new wave of writers is making waves, quite literally. The trend, dubbed “Sonarification,” involves crafting poems that not only resonate with the soul but also echo the profound depths of human experiences, much like sonar waves penetrate the deep seas. A selection of poems under this banner reveals a fascinating blend of introspection, spirituality, and a keen sense of the world around us.
Equally, there is a rich diversity in themes, styles, and imagery in “Sonarification,” by Harry Matthews. And the poet encourages you to write your own. The poems oscillate between introspective contemplations and bold forays into the realms of nature, spirituality, and human experience.
The Symphony of Depth and Diversity
One standout piece, “A Letter to a Young Poet after RM Rilke,” serves as a poignant meditation on sorrow and growth. Channelling Rilke’s depth, the poem reaches into the transformative power of suffering, with lines that resonate long after they’re read. This poem exemplifies the Sonarification technique, using language that reverberates through the layers of the reader’s consciousness.
In a similar vein, “The Journey from Shropshire to Self” takes readers on a deeply personal journey, exploring identity and change. The poet’s evolution from conformity to self-awareness is depicted with an honesty that is both brave and vulnerable. The transition from “Tory pinstripes” to “threadbare truths” metaphorically illustrates a shedding of old skins, a theme that echoes loudly in the current socio-political climate.
“The Forgotten Chamber” is a haunting exploration of memory and loss. The poem’s reflective tone, combined with its evocative imagery, creates a narrative that is both poignant and deep. The lines “You roamed the dark interiors, vast / Where saddened souls in chains regress,” offer a stark yet beautiful portrayal of the human psyche.
Sonar Waves in the Spiritual Realm
“Faith” stands out for its vivid portrayal of a battle between light and darkness. The poem’s contrast between the tangible “pit of totality” and the ethereal “rose virgins” and “holy acolytes” resonates with a spiritual sonar, navigating through the depths of faith and despair.
In contrast, “Ill Maestro” offers a blend of spiritual guidance and personal introspection, suggesting a journey toward wisdom and understanding. The incorporation of religious references adds layers to the poem, allowing readers to dive deeper into its meaning.
The Natural World in Sonarification
“Greenfinch by the Wheat Field” and “Gregynog” bring the natural world into sharp focus, using vivid imagery to create a sense of place that is both specific and universal. These poems resonate with a naturalistic sonar, echoing the interconnectedness of all living things.
Sonarification: Echoing Depths in Modern Poetry
The emerging trend of Sonarification in poetry continues to ripple through the literary world, with poets using language to navigate the depths of human experience, spirituality, and the complexities of the natural and social world. Here’s a closer look at more poems grouped under thematic headings:
Mystical and Psychological Depths
“Lone Prophet” is distinguished for its mystical elements, this poem adeptly interweaves perceptions of the mundane with the spiritual, creating a blur between the two realms. “He is like the moonshine obscuring the surrounding stars; we can’t quite see them…” “Après Coup” is a vivid exploration of the psyche, this piece critiques societal norms and reflects on the impact of external influences on the journey towards self-realization. “The blow softened my mind like rainforest mushrooms, / Colours and fantasies opened; the tree spoke…” “Astray” is a spiritual journey rich in religious and mythological symbolism, portraying the transformation from darkness to enlightenment. “Before demon growl and catcalls were sharp, now silent; / Each vulture christened the betrayal of villagers.”
Inner Turmoil and Human Relationships
“Belias” is a nocturnal journey into self-doubt and the search for truth, weaving cosmic imagery into a personal narrative of turmoil. “Stars dance in the night, turquoise and red, / Signalling the time, the watershed.” “Cantata” delves into the emotional turbulence of human relationships, with themes of love, envy, and rejection set against a natural backdrop. “‘You disgust me’, he abraded, / Ashamed of the more tender boy who / Felt a knife twist in his heart.” Debauchee is bold exploration of hedonism and self-discovery, tackling the complexities of desire and the pursuit of pleasure with vivid, sensual imagery. “I saw the world of love through the débauchée’s eyes – / Oysters frightened me, I looked bashful at the Chablis–”
Good, Evil, and the Natural World
“Shark’s Triangle” is a metaphorical voyage juxtaposing malevolence and benevolence, illustrating the struggle between good and evil in a maritime setting. “In waters deep, where evil’s gaze is cast, / A gorgon’s glare, a megalodon vast.” “Elegy written in portmanteau” is a dreamlike blend of natural and fantastical imagery, this poem plays with whimsy and depth, creating a layered narrative, drawing on influences as disparate as Lewis Carrol and Tove Jansson. “From the distant slithy mound and pill box, / Where the Bandersnatch wails at the moon.” “Faith” starkly portrays the battle between good and evil, this piece contrasts darkness and light with impactful imagery.” In the grasp of the Almighty, / the barrier fell, Under twilight’s gaze, / The Foe, once hidden, quelled.” “Obdios” is a deeply personal exploration of faith and destiny, expressing a profound connection to the divine.
Ecological Messages and Cultural Reflections
“Medusa’s Sea” is an allegory on human greed and environmental destruction, enriched with mythological references that add timelessness to its urgent ecological message. “In this world of climate’s roar, / Man’s greed hitting the core.” “Muskroot” reaches into the senses and the natural world, this poem explores the depths of human experience and our intrinsic connection to nature. “I savoured nard’s embrace, its love profound, / Amidst pink bellflowers, its fragrance found.” “Omnipotent” is epic narrative blending spiritual and cosmic themes, this poem impresses with its vast thematic depth and scope. “Down came the wall, dark and dire, / Mountains bowed low, in celestial fire.” “Ode on the death of a Samurai” is a vivid, dramatic tale that interweaves historical and cultural elements, emotionally engaging and resonant. “The startled Samurai, tumbling, / Shocked by the fast-flowing river below.” “Amsterdam” is a personal journey through Amsterdam, capturing the city’s essence with vivid imagery and deep emotional layers. “‘He’s back,’ says Hans, wide-eyed surprise, / As I vomit Jenever, a wild adventure in disguise.” “Parvelinker” is a unique exploration of Amsterdam culture, blending local and universal aspects with striking imagery and cultural references. “Parlevinker’s slippery eels, / Are skewered over the fire, ‘freshly smoked.’”
These poems, under the Sonarification banner, reveal the multifaceted nature of contemporary poetry. They are characterised by their ability to echo through the depths of human consciousness, much like sonar waves, uncovering hidden truths and insights in their wake.
Conclusion
The Sonarification trend in poetry is a testament to the enduring power of the written word to explore the deepest recesses of human experience. These poems, with their layered meanings and resonant imagery, invite readers to dive deep, echoing the sonar waves that reveal the hidden contours of the ocean floor. As this trend continues to evolve, it holds the promise of unearthing even more profound insights into the human condition.
Ὠκεανοῦ, ὅς περ γένεσις πάντεσσι τέτυκται:
Oceanus, from whom they all are sprung
Hom. Il. 14.245
Poetry Review
In examining the poetry of Matthews, one is struck by the complexity and diversity of his work, which upon closer inspection, reveals a striking consistency and straightforwardness. Though attempts have been made to distil his poetic style into a simple formula, such efforts are largely unhelpful and should not be taken seriously.
Matthews’ poetry can be best described as a fusion of the celestial beauty and a systematic approach to poetic structure. His work is underpinned by a consistent metaphysical worldview, and he successfully employs a theory of correspondences to illuminate this perspective.
While the structures and rhyme schemes of his first six collections, as well as his work “Idylls of the Nymphai,” and “Awaken in Seascape,” may seem arbitrarily imposed, Matthews’ poetry is characterised by a tension between order and disarray, coherence and fragmentariness. This duality is evident in the way he engages with the reader, revealing profound insights at unexpected moments.
Matthews’ poetry often eschews weighty themes in favour of what we might call, to adapt a phrase by Matthew Arnold, a “high to low-frivolity.” This approach, combined with a light, unremarkable rhythm and a certain evolving from mere flatness in his exploration of human nature, does elicit some of the mysteries of the world, and means that Matthews can be counted on inspiring. Nevertheless, he is very much a poet of his time, though incorporating romantic and idealistic elements that enhance his work while also paying homage to earlier poetic traditions.
In his praise of the human soul and Spirit, Matthews often seems out of step with the modern world, and his challenges in defining the human condition can sometimes make it difficult to fully appreciate his artistic achievements. Yet, it is important to note that Matthews is not without merit; his poetry is marked by moments of clarity and beauty, and his revisions are often aimed at achieving greater truthfulness in his work. While his poetry may contain elements of obscurity, it is also graced with smooth, beautiful verse of considerable sensitivity, that occasionally gives way to roughness, and more often than not evokes an epiphany, creating a unique and intriguing poetic landscape.
[2020-2023]
Literature & Arts Special Issue
In the pastoral heart of Staffordshire, Harry Matthews first encountered the allure of nature amidst a backdrop of early turmoil, before progressing through the academic portals of school in Shropshire and later, the University of Reading.
As a painter-poet, he imbues his book covers with the hues of his spirit. He traverses the opaque divide between anonymity and cult adoration, zealously maintaining his poetic independence while honing his artistic voice.
Matthews crafts a tapestry of dichotomies, summoning both the strange and the splendid, a bard with a yearning for truth and wisdom. He delves into his own existence to inspire his poetic profundities. He is also a doctoral researcher of Richard Barnfield, emerging with revelations that cast light on a neglected early modern poet. His involvement in a Roman symposium, a confluence of the poetic and the scholarly, offered a peek into his curious intellect.
His verse? A maelstrom of change, where experience and insight is transmuted by the spark of creativity. It’s a tamed odyssey across the planes of reality, as intricate and winding as the creativity that propels it – Matthews is, above all, a poet who infuses words with fervor.
In his second collection, “Twynd”, he dances with the unexpected, finding triumph in defeat, wisdom in hidden folds of hope. “Hyperion” is a symphony of divine fire, a tragic tapestry woven with love and loss: Baffled plumbs the depths of self and other, where reality and fiction blur in a poetic embrace.
His alliterative prowess in “Woodwose” – it’s a rhythmic incantation, reverberates through the soul. Each line, a line is a dance of sound and sense, evoking enchanting apprehsnions of surreal and natural beauty.
In “Idylls of the Nympahi” – Matthews captures the ephemeral, the fleeting moments of natural splendour in verses that echo the subtle power of nature. Nephele paints a world reborn in sunlight, tracing a path down to the sea, a silent illumination.
But who is Harry Matthews? He’s an enigmatic man, a poet and a scholar. His poetry embodies every contradiction and paradox on the edge of light and darkness.
His poetry is a journey of the heart, exploring the mysterious depths of allusion and metaphor. In Matthews’ world, the thunderous roar of the sea is a muffled echo within us, a call to the wild that resides in every heart.
His poems are not just written; they are felt, discovered, and unravelled. Each reading is an act of pleasure, a communal unearthing of hidden complexities. Whether read aloud or in the quiet solitude of the mind, Matthews’ poetry is a profound experience, a celebration of life in all its beautiful contradictions.
Early Influences:
“My life started in the rural landscapes of Staffordshire, where I grew up amidst the wild things, crafting my own languages within the pages of an old atlas. My early years were more than just school; they were a crucible that shaped me into the poet and artist I am today. Post-university, I ventured abroad in search of the bizarre and the profound. Returning to Shropshire felt like a renaissance into the familiar yet mysterious—a journey of reacquaintance.”
Interplay of Poetry and Painting:
“In the primal dance of creation, poetry arises from the mind’s dark, fertile soil, and painting springs from the same untamed essence. As a hawk soars above the terrain, each form may yield to the other. Now, the hawk rests upon poetry, yet painting and poetry are akin to twin creatures questing for the same eternal verities within the heart’s wilderness.”
Contrasts in Poetry:
“In the labyrinth of my verses, I explore the duality of existence – the coexistence of the sacred and profane, light and shadow, the known and the unknowable. This dance of contrasts is akin to walking through the wilderness, seeking both the echo and the voice, to understand what can be revealed within the human soul.”
Prolific Writing and Maintaining Quality:
“The journey from conception to fruition of a poem may span from the brief flicker of a candle to the enduring glow of the northern lights. My ninth collection, “Awaken in Seascape”, was written in my spare time, over the course a year, while engaged in academic research.”
Transfigurative Poetry:
“Transfiguration in poetry is, to me, an alchemy that turns the mundane into the sublime, the ordinary into the divine. It is a pursuit to encapsulate the ephemeral beauty of the world and to immortalise the transient through the crucible of language.”
Unconventional Writing Style:
Being a transformative poet means venturing beyond conventional boundaries. It is a pilgrimage across the barren landscape of language and form. To captivate with unconventionality is to beguile and seize the reader’s attention, guiding them through unknown realms with the allure of discovery, epiphany, awakening and wonder.”
Significant Works:
“‘Hyperion’ emerges from the crucible of personal anguish, a forge where simplicity is the highest form of sophistication. It’s a work that distils complex emotions into a purer, more accessible form, reflective of life’s profoundest truths.”
Capturing Reality:
“Poetry, my sanctuary, is the lens through which the chaos of reality is distilled into clarity. It’s the heart’s eye, capturing the world not as it is, but as it’s felt and imagined, a bridge spanning the chasm between the tangible and the ineffable.”
Influence of Scholarly Background:
“My academic pursuits in early modern poetry are but a facet of my language’s prism. While they inform my forays into the surreal and mystical, my poetry often transcends scholarly boundaries to capture a reality that is as bewildering as it is beguiling, seeking to unify the paradoxical and liberate the unseen.”
Advice to Aspiring Poets:
“For those embarking on the poet’s journey, remember, it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace both the rigors of discipline and the chaos of creativity. Study the masters, wrestle with the rules, then let your unique voice soar on the wings of unfettered expression.”
Dream Collaboration:
“To collaborate with Taliesin, the ancient bard, would be to drink from a wellspring of primal creativity. Yet, a fusion with a fantasy writer for a young adult audience promises a delightful foray into realms unbound by the fetters of adult cynicism.”
Recognition by Magazine:
“The recognition by Voraka Magazine is a gratifying nod to the labour of love that each collection represents. It’s not just about reaching a wider audience; it’s about connecting, reappraising, the shared human experience that poetry, at its best, can evoke – be it a chuckle or a tear, a nod of understanding, or a gasp of surprise, or a grasp of realisation.”
Magazine Feature & Interview
“Awaken in Seascape,” my 8th poetry collection, is featured in the May 2023 issue of VORAKA magazine, p. 30, with an extensive interview in which I talk about writing poetry, p. 31.
Interview & Review: DeMode Global Issue [Vol V, Issue XXV]
“When you open a book; you are also opening your mind, your potential and your point of view. We have brought you a lost of the top 9 must-read books for this spring that will help you open up your potential and your point of view in 2022. From gripping thrillers to literary gems…Idylls of the Nymphai: From a Mantic Coracle by Author Harry Matthews…”
Enjoy reading DE MODE JAN-FEB-MARCH 2022
A Whimsical Journey Through India
“A Whimsical Journey Through India” by Harry Matthews is a captivating travel verse narrative that takes readers on an exploratory adventure through India. Matthews, an easy-going modern-day explorer, ventures into the heart of India with a blend of irony and a keen eye for the unusual. His journey is not just about the places he visits but also about the vibrant lives of the people he encounters and the rich tapestry of experiences that India offers.
The book offers a fresh perspective on the classic rite of passage, beginning with a mystical invocation and spanning a journey filled with zest and openness to the diverse cultural milieu of India. The narrative transcends mere observation, offering insights into the very essence of Indian life and Matthews’ deep engagement with its people.
Ruth Bidgood, the late Anglo-Welsh poet, praised the book for providing explanations where necessary, suggesting that Matthews does not shy away from the complexities of his experiences, but rather seeks to elucidate and inform the reader. Simon Calder, a travel journalist, compliments the book for its beautiful illustrations, there are 75 throughout, which enriches the storytelling with visual splendour.
Matthews is noted for his versatility as a writer, having published poetry prior to this verse travelogue. His journey to India, taken before his university finals and during the monsoon season, showcases his adventurous spirit and ability to embrace the unexpected.
The cover of the book features vibrant artwork, is indicative of the colourful and whimsical nature of both the journey and the writing style. The peacock, a symbol of grace and beauty, may hint at the richness of the narrative and the depth of exploration into India’s cultural heritage.
♦
“A Whimsical Journey Through India” is a travelogue in verse that captures the essence of India through the eyes of the narrator, Harry Matthews. The manuscript is structured as a series of chapters, each focusing on different regions and experiences in India. It opens with evocative verses describing the scene in Darjeeling by the third highest mountain in the world, setting the tone for a journey that’s as much about introspection as it is about the exploration of a country.
As the journey unfolds, we’re taken to Udaipur, where art and history meet in a miniature school and a tale of an unconventional artist in Amsterdam is recounted, highlighting the contrasts and the rich tapestry of experiences that India has to offer. In Jaisalmer, the narrative confronts the history of Partition and the raw, elemental forces of nature.
The tranquillity and heritage of Rohet Garh are explored, offering a peaceful respite and a chance for reflection the vibrant plumage of Rohet’s peacocks is used as a segue into discussions on Darwin’s theories, blending the natural world with intellectual musings.
The travel poetry closes with a personal reflection on the author’s journey, both literal and metaphorical. The narrator delves into his family’s history, his motivations for travelling, and the transformative impact of India on his life. The narrative is suffused with cultural insights, personal growth, and a deep appreciation for the spirit of India.
Matthews’s writing is rich with description, capturing the sensory experiences of India, from the chai canteens perched precariously on mountain sides to the serenity of the ascetics in their orange robes. The narrative is also not shy of acknowledging the challenges and oddities encountered along the way, such as the surreal experience with the Sherpas in Shimla.
“A Whimsical Journey Through India” is both a personal journey and a cultural exploration, written with an eye for detail and a heart open to the myriad experiences of life in India. It weaves together the external landscapes with the internal voyage of the author, offering a nuanced perspective that goes beyond the typical travel narrative, not least it being in verse. Matthews manages to capture the soul of India, with its contrasts, beauty, and complexities, while also charting his own inner transformation.
A Whimsical Journey Through India
Publisher : Harry Matthews; First Printing (1 July 2021).
Language : English
Paperback : 410 pages
ISBN-10 : 1916871968
ISBN-13 : 978-1916871960
Dimensions : 15.24 x 2.13 x 22.86 cm
A Whimsical Journey Through India
True to the God in You
The collection starts with a powerful preface, setting the tone for a journey of self-realisation and spiritual awakening. Matthews skilfully intertwines themes of strength, loyalty, courage, and sacrifice, presenting them as essential components in the pursuit of understanding and aligning with the divine.
Throughout the poems, Matthews exhibits a remarkable ability to draw from various religious and spiritual traditions, particularly Islamic mysticism. His references to the Quranic notions of love and mercy provide a fresh perspective on these concepts, transcending traditional interpretations.
One of the most striking aspects of Matthews’ poetry is his use of natural imagery to depict spiritual and emotional states. This is evident in poems like “On the Pleasures of Sunbathing” and “On Conversing with Blackbirds,” where mundane activities or observations become metaphors for deeper spiritual truths.
The collection also delves into the human condition, exploring emotions such as love, grief, and defiance. Matthews shows a keen understanding of these experiences, always connecting them back to the overarching theme of divine presence and guidance.
In conclusion, “True to the God in You” is a compelling and thought-provoking collection that encourages readers to seek a deeper understanding of themselves and their place in the divine scheme. Matthews’ poetic voice is both unique and universal, making this collection a valuable addition to contemporary spiritual literature.
Hyperion
Epigraph (John Keats, Hyperion: A Fragment, Book III. (1819))
This excerpt from Keats’s “Hyperion” resonates with a profound sense of melancholy and existential questioning. The speaker feels weighed down by an inexplicable sadness, yearning for a lost sense of freedom and purpose. Keats’s use of language and imagery captures a deep sense of longing and the pain of unrealised potential.
The Great Physician
This poem explores themes of longing, fulfilment, and the search for meaning in life. The imagery of driving through a storm towards a lake symbolises a journey through turmoil towards peace or clarity. The poem’s conclusion, suggesting that true resolution comes through a form of metaphorical death, hints at the idea of rebirth or transformation as a path to overcoming inner conflicts.
Hyperion
This poem is a complex meditation on divinity, knowledge, and the human condition. The references to a ‘super brain’, ‘Divine Holograms’, and the ‘Central Sun’ are particularly evocative, suggesting a search for a higher understanding or connection. The poem grapples with the nature of God and the human quest for enlightenment, blending scientific and spiritual imagery in a compelling way.
Dark Fire
“Dark Fire” delves into the intensity of passion and love, using vivid imagery to describe a deep and consuming relationship. The poem transitions from joyous celebration to a darker, more reflective tone, questioning the lasting impact of such intense emotions. The use of contrasting images like ‘bright burning firework’ and ‘dark fire’ effectively captures the complexities of love and desire.
You’re Still End
This poem reflects on identity, destiny, and the inexorable march towards an end, possibly death. It speaks to the shared human condition, the unavoidable nature of change, and the search for meaning in the face of these realities. The poem’s sombre tone suggests a resignation to fate, while also acknowledging the power of human emotions and experiences.
Lumpenproletarian
Here, the poet offers a critical view of societal structures and class distinctions, using the term ‘chavs’ to represent a marginalised group. The poem seems to critique both societal views of this group and the group’s own internal struggles. The imagery of ‘hooded monks’ and ‘dark-skinned and cold’ individuals suggests a complex interplay between societal perceptions and personal identity.
Striving in the Path of God
This poem explores themes of moral judgment, societal control, and the struggle between higher ideals and base instincts. The imagery of ‘invisible policemen’ and the ‘edifice teeters’ suggests a conflict between societal order and personal freedom. The poem’s intense and sometimes violent imagery reflects a deep engagement with the challenges of living a moral life in a complex world.
Overall, these poems by Harry Matthews offer a rich exploration of human emotion, existential struggle, and the quest for meaning. They blend personal introspection with broader social commentary, using vivid imagery and powerful language to engage the reader on multiple levels.
Hyperion
- Publisher : Harry Matthews (29 Dec. 2020)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 78 pages
- ISBN-10 : 1838349812
- ISBN-13 : 978-1838349813
- Dimensions : 12.85 x 0.48 x 19.84 cm