A sestina is a type of fixed form poetry that is characterized by its strict structure and repeating lines. It was originally developed in the Middle Ages and has since been used by many poets to convey a wide range of emotions and themes. Elizabeth Bishop, an American poet known for her precise and evocative language, wrote several sestinas throughout her career, including "Sestina."
In "Sestina," Bishop uses the repetition of the six end words in each stanza to create a sense of cyclical motion and to explore the theme of loss and memory. The sestina form, with its strict structure and repeating lines, serves as a metaphor for the way in which memories and experiences can become ingrained in our minds, returning to us again and again.
The poem begins with the speaker recalling a childhood memory of a summer day spent playing with her aunt. The end words of the stanza, "day," "summer," "sun," "field," "child," and "aunt," all evoke a sense of innocence and simplicity, setting the tone for the rest of the poem.
As the poem progresses, the speaker reflects on the passage of time and the changes that have occurred in her life. The end words of the stanza, "time," "change," "life," "death," "memory," and "love," capture the complex emotions that come with growing older and experiencing loss.
Despite the heavy themes, Bishop's language is precise and evocative, allowing the reader to fully experience the speaker's memories and emotions. The repetition of the end words serves to underscore the central theme of loss and memory, as the speaker grapples with the realization that the past cannot be regained.
Overall, "Sestina" is a powerful and poignant exploration of the human experience and the way in which our memories shape our understanding of the world. Through her use of the sestina form and her masterful language, Bishop captures the complexity and beauty of the human experience.
