What the Living Do: Marie Howe’s Meaning
In the profound poem “What the Living Do,” Marie Howe explores the intricate relationship between the living and the dead, delving into the complexities of grief, remembrance, and the enduring bond between generations. The poem’s title itself serves as a poignant reminder of the impact that the actions of the living have on the memory and legacy of those who have passed away.
Howe’s work is characterized by its raw emotional intensity and its ability to convey the depth of human experience. In “What the Living Do,” she invites readers to reflect on the ways in which we honor and remember those who have gone before us, and how their presence continues to shape our lives. The poem’s meaning can be unpacked through several key themes: the power of memory, the role of storytelling, and the importance of maintaining connections with the past.
The first line of the poem, “What the living do,” sets the stage for the entire work. Howe suggests that the actions of the living are crucial in preserving the memory of the deceased. This idea is further emphasized in the following lines, where she writes, “We tell the story / to the children, to the children’s children.” By sharing stories, the living ensure that the legacy of the dead is not forgotten. This act of storytelling serves as a bridge between the past and the present, allowing us to honor the lives of those who have passed on while also connecting us to our own heritage.
Another significant theme in “What the Living Do” is the power of memory. Howe acknowledges that memory is imperfect, and that it can be both a gift and a burden. She writes, “Memory is a house, and in it / we store the things we cannot live without.” This metaphor suggests that memory is a place where we store the essence of our experiences, both joyful and sorrowful. However, it also implies that memory can be heavy, burdening us with the weight of the past. Howe’s exploration of memory serves as a reminder that while we cannot change the past, we can choose how we remember it and how it shapes our present lives.
The poem also touches on the importance of maintaining connections with the past. Howe writes, “We are the living, and we do what the living do / we remember.” This line underscores the idea that our actions as the living are inextricably linked to our remembrance of the dead. By engaging in acts of remembrance, such as telling stories, visiting gravesites, or simply keeping the memory of a loved one alive in our hearts, we honor the lives of those who have gone before us and ensure that their legacy endures.
In conclusion, “What the Living Do” by Marie Howe is a powerful exploration of the meaning behind the actions we take to honor and remember those who have passed away. The poem emphasizes the importance of storytelling, the power of memory, and the enduring connections between the living and the dead. Through its evocative language and thought-provoking themes, Howe invites readers to reflect on their own relationships with the past and the ways in which they can continue to honor the lives of those who have touched their own.
