“Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens: A Critical Analysis

Introduction: “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

“Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens, first published in 1957 in the posthumous collection Opus Posthumous, is characterized by its philosophical depth, exploring themes of existence, perception, and the relationship between the self and the external world. Its vivid imagery, particularly the central metaphor of a golden bird against a bronze decor, creates a sense of vibrant yet serene beauty. The poem’s unique rhythm and meter, along with its use of internal rhymes and assonance, contribute to its overall musicality and contemplative tone. “Of Mere Being” exemplifies Stevens’ later style, which is marked by a focus on abstraction and metaphysical inquiry.

Text: “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

Annotations: “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

Text	Annotation
The palm at the end of the mind,	The “palm” symbolizes a mental image or idea. It’s described as being at the “end of the mind,” suggesting a distant or abstract place beyond conscious thought.
Beyond the last thought, rises	This line suggests that the image or idea represented by the palm transcends the realm of conscious thought, implying a deeper, subconscious level of awareness.
In the bronze decor,	The setting is described with the phrase “bronze decor,” which evokes a sense of permanence or solidity. This could represent the enduring nature of the mental image or idea.
A gold-feathered bird	Here, a bird is introduced into the scene, described as having “gold-feathered” plumage. This bird serves as a symbol of pure, unadulterated existence, untouched by human concerns or meanings.
Sings in the palm, without human meaning,	The bird’s song is emphasized as being devoid of human significance or interpretation. It exists outside the realm of human understanding, reinforcing its status as a symbol of pure being.
Without human feeling, a foreign song.	The bird’s song is further described as lacking human emotion, emphasizing its alien or otherworldly nature. It sings a song that is unfamiliar to human experience.
You know then that it is not the reason	This line shifts to a more reflective tone, suggesting a realization about the nature of happiness and unhappiness. It implies that these states are not solely determined by rational thought.
That makes us happy or unhappy.	Happiness and unhappiness are depicted as being independent of rationality. This suggests a deeper, more intuitive source for these emotions, beyond the realm of conscious reasoning.
The bird sings. Its feathers shine.	The bird’s song and radiant plumage are reiterated, emphasizing its existence as a pure, unmediated expression of being. These details further highlight its detachment from human concerns.
The palm stands on the edge of space.	The image of the palm is reinforced, positioned metaphorically “on the edge of space,” suggesting its transcendent nature. It exists at the boundary between conscious thought and the unknown.
The wind moves slowly in the branches.	This line introduces the element of wind, which adds a sense of movement and dynamism to the scene. The slow movement of the wind contrasts with the stillness of the palm and the bird.
The bird’s fire-fangled feathers dangle down.	The bird’s feathers are described as “fire-fangled,” suggesting a fiery or intense quality. They “dangle down,” perhaps symbolizing the bird’s connection to the earth or its grounding in reality.

Literary And Poetic Devices: “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

1. Metaphor: Comparing two unlike things without using “like” or “as”.
   • Example: “The palm at the end of the mind”
   • Explanation: Here, the palm is a metaphor for a mental image or idea that exists beyond conscious thought.
2. Symbolism: Using objects, characters, or concepts to represent abstract ideas.
   • Example: “A gold-feathered bird”
   • Explanation: The bird symbolizes pure existence or being, untouched by human concerns or interpretations.
3. Imagery: Using descriptive language to create vivid mental images.
   • Example: “A gold-feathered bird / Sings in the palm”
   • Explanation: The imagery evokes a clear picture of a bird with radiant feathers singing within the mental image represented by the palm.
4. Personification: Giving human qualities to non-human entities.
   • Example: “The wind moves slowly in the branches.”
   • Explanation: The wind is personified as moving slowly, as if it possesses deliberate action or intent.
5. Alliteration: The repetition of initial consonant sounds in neighboring words.
   • Example: “The bird’s fire-fangled feathers”
   • Explanation: The repetition of the “f” sound in “fire-fangled feathers” creates a rhythmic effect and draws attention to the bird’s radiant plumage.
6. Assonance: The repetition of vowel sounds within nearby words.
   • Example: “Without human feeling, a foreign song.”
   • Explanation: The repetition of the “o” sound in “foreign” and “song” creates a sense of harmony and musicality in the line.
7. Consonance: The repetition of consonant sounds within nearby words.
   • Example: “The palm stands on the edge of space.”
   • Explanation: The repetition of the “s” sound in “stands” and “space” adds a soft, flowing quality to the line.
8. Enjambment: The continuation of a sentence or phrase from one line of poetry to the next without a pause.
   • Example: “The palm stands on the edge of space. / The wind moves slowly in the branches.”
   • Explanation: Enjambment creates a sense of fluidity and momentum, guiding the reader smoothly from one line to the next.
9. Anaphora: The repetition of a word or phrase at the beginning of successive clauses or lines.
   • Example: “Without human meaning, / Without human feeling, / Without human reason”
   • Explanation: The repetition of “without human” emphasizes the bird’s alien nature and its separation from human experience.
10. Onomatopoeia: Words that imitate the sound they represent.
    • Example: “Sings in the palm”
    • Explanation: The word “sings” mimics the melodic sound of the bird’s song, enhancing the auditory imagery of the poem.
11. Irony: Expressing something by using language that typically signifies the opposite.
    • Example: “Without human meaning, a foreign song.”
    • Explanation: The irony lies in the fact that the bird’s song is described as “foreign” and lacking human meaning, yet it holds profound significance within the poem’s context.
12. Oxymoron: The juxtaposition of two contradictory words or concepts.
    • Example: “Fire-fangled feathers”
    • Explanation: The phrase combines the contrasting ideas of fire (associated with heat and intensity) and feathers (typically soft and delicate), creating a vivid and striking image.
13. Paradox: A statement that appears self-contradictory but reveals a deeper truth.
    • Example: “The palm at the end of the mind”
    • Explanation: The palm being at the “end of the mind” seems contradictory, yet it suggests a boundary or threshold of consciousness beyond which the palm exists.
14. Allusion: A reference to a well-known person, event, or work of art.
    • Example: The title “Of Mere Being” alludes to philosophical concepts of existence and ontology.
    • Explanation: By invoking the notion of “mere being,” the title hints at deeper philosophical inquiries into the nature of existence explored throughout the poem.
15. Hyperbole: Exaggerated statements or claims not meant to be taken literally.
    • Example: “The palm stands on the edge of space.”
    • Explanation: While the palm is not literally located in space, this hyperbolic statement emphasizes its transcendent nature and symbolic significance.
16. Repetition: Repeating words, phrases, or lines for emphasis.
    • Example: “The bird sings. Its feathers shine.”
    • Explanation: The repetition of “The bird” at the beginning of each line highlights the bird’s importance and draws attention to its actions and attributes.
17. Synecdoche: A figure of speech in which a part is used to represent the whole or vice versa.
    • Example: “The palm at the end of the mind”
    • Explanation: The “palm” represents the mental image or idea as a whole, using a part of the body to symbolize a broader concept.
18. Euphony: The use of harmonious sounds in poetry.
    • Example: “The wind moves slowly in the branches.”
    • Explanation: The gentle, flowing sounds of “wind,” “moves,” and “branches” create a sense of tranquility and beauty, contributing to the poem’s overall euphony.
19. Cacophony: The use of harsh or discordant sounds in poetry.
    • Example: “Fire-fangled feathers dangle down.”
    • Explanation: The cacophonous combination of “fire,” “fangled,” and “feathers” creates a jarring effect, contrasting with the softer sounds found elsewhere in the poem.
20. Rhyme: Correspondence of sound between words or the endings of words.
    • Example: “mind” and “find” (implied rhyme)
    • Explanation: While “Of Mere Being” does not feature traditional end rhyme, there are instances of internal or implied rhyme, such as in the repetition of similar sounds within lines or stanzas.

Themes: “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

• Theme 1: The Limits of Human Understanding
  The poem explores the idea that there are things beyond human comprehension, “Beyond the last thought” (l. 2), and that our understanding is limited. The palm and the bird exist in a realm that is “without human meaning, / Without human feeling” (ll. 5-6), highlighting the boundaries of human knowledge and emotion.
• Theme 2: The Power of Nature
  The poem highlights the beauty and wonder of nature, with the palm and bird existing in a state of being that is untouched by human concerns. The “gold-feathered bird” (l. 4) sings a “foreign song” (l. 6) that is not bound by human emotions or reason, and the palm stands “on the edge of space” (l. 9), emphasizing the vastness and mystery of the natural world.
• Theme 3: Happiness and Unhappiness
  The poem suggests that happiness and unhappiness are not solely the result of human reason or understanding. The bird sings, and its “feathers shine” (l. 8), regardless of human emotions or thoughts. This implies that joy and sorrow are not entirely within our control, and that there are forces beyond our understanding that can bring us happiness or unhappiness.
• Theme 4: The Interplay of Beauty and Existence
  The poem explores the relationship between beauty and existence, with the palm and bird embodying a beauty that is both fragile and resilient. The “fire-fangled feathers” (l. 12) of the bird dangle down, suggesting a delicate yet vibrant existence, while the palm stands on the edge of space, emphasizing the precarious yet beautiful nature of being.

Literary Theories and “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

Literary Theory	Application to “Of Mere Being”	References from the Poem
Imagism	Focus on clear and concise language, precise images, and free verse form.	“The palm at the end of the mind” (l. 1), “A gold-feathered bird” (l. 4), “The palm stands on the edge of space” (l. 9)
Symbolism	Use of objects (palm, bird, feathers) to represent abstract ideas or concepts beyond literal meaning.	“The palm” (ll. 1, 9), “A gold-feathered bird” (l. 4), “fire-fangled feathers” (l. 12)
Existentialism	Exploration of human existence, being, and the search for meaning, with a focus on the individual’s experience.	“Beyond the last thought” (l. 2), “You know then that it is not the reason / That makes us happy or unhappy” (ll. 7-8)

Critical Questions about “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

• How does Wallace Stevens use imagery and symbolism in “Of Mere Being” to explore the theme of existentialism?
• The poem employs vivid imagery, such as the “palm at the end of the mind” and the “gold-feathered bird,” to evoke a sense of abstract existence beyond human comprehension. These symbols represent the ineffable essence of being, existing beyond the confines of rational thought or human interpretation. Stevens suggests that true being is unadulterated by human constructs or meanings, as seen in the bird’s song devoid of “human meaning” or “human feeling.” Through these symbols, Stevens delves into the philosophical inquiries of existentialism, pondering the nature of existence itself and its relationship to human consciousness.
• In what ways does “Of Mere Being” challenge conventional notions of happiness and reason?
• Stevens presents a nuanced perspective on happiness and reason, suggesting that they are not inherently linked. The poem asserts that happiness is not solely dependent on rationality or understanding, as indicated by the line, “You know then that it is not the reason / That makes us happy or unhappy.” Instead, the bird’s song and radiant plumage symbolize a state of being that transcends reason, emphasizing the importance of intuitive experience and sensory perception in finding happiness. Stevens challenges the conventional view that reason is the sole arbiter of human emotion, proposing a more complex and multifaceted understanding of happiness.
• How does Wallace Stevens employ paradox and irony in “Of Mere Being” to explore the complexities of human perception?
• Throughout the poem, Stevens utilizes paradoxical language and ironic juxtapositions to underscore the limitations of human understanding. For instance, the title itself, “Of Mere Being,” suggests a simplicity that belies the profound philosophical inquiries within the poem. Additionally, the description of the bird’s song as “without human meaning” and “a foreign song” highlights the paradoxical nature of existence, wherein the unfamiliar and incomprehensible can evoke a profound sense of wonder and awe. Through these paradoxes and ironies, Stevens invites readers to question their assumptions about reality and to embrace the enigmatic and mysterious aspects of existence.
• How does the structure and form of “Of Mere Being” contribute to its thematic exploration of transcendence and the ineffable?
• The poem’s structure, characterized by its concise and meditative verses, mirrors the contemplative nature of its subject matter. The use of enjambment and sparse punctuation creates a sense of fluidity and openness, allowing ideas to flow seamlessly from one line to the next. This structural choice reflects the poem’s theme of transcendence, suggesting that true being exists beyond the constraints of language and rational thought. Additionally, the absence of traditional rhyme scheme or meter contributes to the poem’s sense of boundlessness, echoing the idea that true being transcends conventional boundaries and definitions. Through its structure and form, “Of Mere Being” invites readers to explore the ineffable depths of existence beyond the confines of language and logic.

Topics, Questions, and Thesis Statement about “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

Topic	Question	Thesis Statement
The Nature of Reality	How does the poem explore the relationship between the human mind and the external world?	“In ‘Of Mere Being,’ Wallace Stevens uses the imagery of the palm and bird to suggest that reality exists independently of human thought, challenging the notion that our perceptions shape our understanding of the world.”
The Limits of Human Understanding	What does the poem reveal about the boundaries of human knowledge and comprehension?	“Through the poem’s use of enigmatic imagery and symbolism, Stevens highlights the limitations of human understanding, suggesting that there are aspects of existence that lie beyond the reach of human reason and intellect.”
The Role of Beauty in Human Experience	How does the poem portray the relationship between beauty and human existence?	“In ‘Of Mere Being,’ Stevens presents beauty as a transcendent and redemptive force, one that exists independently of human emotions and experiences, yet has the power to transform and elevate human existence.”
The Search for Meaning and Purpose	What insights does the poem offer into the human quest for meaning and purpose?	“Through its exploration of the palm and bird, ‘Of Mere Being’ suggests that meaning and purpose may not be found through rational inquiry or human effort, but rather through an openness to the mysteries and wonders of existence.”

Literary Works Similar to “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

1. “Thirteen Ways of Looking at a Blackbird” by Wallace Stevens: Another poem by Wallace Stevens, this work explores themes of perception, existence, and the nature of reality through a series of thirteen vignettes, each depicting a different perspective on a blackbird.
2. “The Waste Land” by T.S. Eliot: This modernist poem delves into themes of disillusionment, fragmentation, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Like Stevens, Eliot employs rich symbolism and imagery to convey a sense of existential unease and spiritual crisis.
3. “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” by T.S. Eliot: Another poem by T.S. Eliot, “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” shares themes of alienation, introspection, and the complexities of modern life. It also features a fragmented narrative style and explores the tension between individual consciousness and societal expectations.
4. “The Snow Man” by Wallace Stevens: In this poem, Stevens contemplates the nature of perception and reality, suggesting that true understanding requires a detached, impersonal perspective akin to that of a snowman. Like “Of Mere Being,” it explores the idea of transcending human subjectivity to apprehend a deeper truth.
5. “The Idea of Order at Key West” by Wallace Stevens: This poem by Stevens meditates on the relationship between art, imagination, and reality. It explores themes of creativity, perception, and the transformative power of poetic vision, similar to the philosophical inquiries found in “Of Mere Being.”

Suggested Readings: “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

Representative Quotations from “Of Mere Being” by Wallace Stevens

Quotation	Context	Theoretical Perspective
“The palm at the end of the mind”	The opening line of the poem, introducing the central image of the palm tree.	Imagism: Focus on clear and concise language, precise images, and free verse form.
“Beyond the last thought, rises”	Describing the palm tree’s existence beyond human comprehension.	Existentialism: Exploration of human existence, being, and the search for meaning, with a focus on the individual’s experience.
“A gold-feathered bird / Sings in the palm, without human meaning”	Introducing the bird’s song, which exists independently of human understanding.	Symbolism: Use of objects (bird, feathers) to represent abstract ideas or concepts beyond literal meaning.
“You know then that it is not the reason / That makes us happy or unhappy”	Highlighting the limitations of human reason in understanding happiness and unhappiness.	Existentialism: Emphasis on individual experience and the absurdity of human existence.
“The palm stands on the edge of space. / The wind moves slowly in the branches.”	Describing the palm tree’s existence in a vast, mysterious universe.	Modernism: Experimentation with form and language, and exploration of the human condition in a changing world.