⦁ Cozy Apologia

Theme

Love/Relationships

"I could pick anything and think of you."

• Analysis: This line establishes the speaker's deep affection for her partner, suggesting that even mundane objects remind her of him. The conversational tone reflects the intimacy of their relationship.

• Context: Written as a tribute to Dove's husband, Fred Viebahn, the poem celebrates the comfort and ordinariness of their love

"This lamp, the wind-still rain, the glossy blue / My pen exudes, drying matte, upon the page."

• Analysis: The imagery of everyday objects emphasizes the simplicity and authenticity of their love. The use of sensory details like "glossy blue" and "drying matte" creates a vivid, tactile connection.

• Context: The poem was written during Hurricane Floyd in 1999, which provides a backdrop of stillness and reflection

"Big Bad Floyd."

• Analysis: The personification of the hurricane as "Big Bad Floyd" adds a playful tone, contrasting with the potential danger of the storm. This reflects the speaker's ability to find humor and lightness even in challenging situations.

• Context: Hurricane Floyd caused significant destruction on the U.S. East Coast in 1999, but the speaker focuses on the safety and comfort of her home.

"We're content, but fall short of the Divine."

• Analysis: This line acknowledges the ordinariness of their love, contrasting it with idealized, "divine" notions of romance. The speaker finds beauty in their imperfect, human connection.

• Context: Dove challenges traditional romantic clichés, offering a modern, realistic portrayal of love.

"Still, it's embarrassing, this happiness."

• Analysis: The speaker's candid admission of her happiness adds a layer of vulnerability and authenticity. The word "embarrassing" suggests that such contentment feels almost indulgent or undeserved.

• Context: The poem reflects Dove's postmodern approach, blending personal experience with broader themes of love and resilience.

Historical Context:

• Written in 1999 during Hurricane Floyd, which caused mass evacuations and destruction.

• The poem is autobiographical, dedicated to Dove's husband, Fred Viebahn

Literary Devices:

• Personification: "Big Bad Floyd" gives the hurricane a playful, human-like quality.

• Imagery: Everyday objects like "lamp" and "pen" symbolize the simplicity of love.

• Free Verse: The conversational tone mirrors the speaker's reflective thoughts.

• Juxtaposition: Contrasts the storm's chaos with the calm of their relationship.

• Enjambment: Creates a flowing, natural rhythm, reflecting the speaker's train of thought.