Ode to the Library: Widener Turns 100 | Summary and Q&A

Transcript

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Summary

The poem "In the Library" by Charles Simic describes a book called 'A Dictionary of Angels' that has not been opened in fifty years. When the speaker finally opens it, they find that the angels were once as numerous as flies, filling the sky at dusk. However, now the library is quiet and the angels remain hidden in the dark pages of unopened books. The poem suggests that there is a great secret within these books, potentially known only to Miss Jones, a tall librarian who seems to hear the whispered voices of the books.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the title of the poem?

The poem is titled "In the Library".

Q: What is the significance of the book 'A Dictionary of Angels'?

The book 'A Dictionary of Angels' in the poem symbolizes the forgotten knowledge and secrets that once existed. Its lack of use for fifty years suggests that people have lost interest or dismissed the importance of angels and the wisdom they hold.

Q: How does the speaker feel when they open the book?

When the speaker opens the book, they have a sense of discovery and anticipation. The creaking covers and crumbling pages indicate that the book has not been touched in a long time, adding an air of mystery and excitement to their exploration.

Q: What does the poem imply about the abundance of angels?

The poem suggests that angels were once plentiful, comparing them to species of flies. This abundance is depicted by the need to wave both arms to keep them away, indicating that they were a prevalent and noticeable presence in the sky.

Q: How does the description of the library contrast with the abundance of angels?

The description of the library starkly contrasts with the previous abundance of angels. The library is now portrayed as a quiet and still place, with huddled angels and gods residing in unopened books. This juxtaposition highlights the disappearance and confinement of angelic knowledge.

Q: Who is Miss Jones and why is she mentioned in the poem?

Miss Jones is a tall librarian mentioned in the poem. She is described as constantly keeping her head tipped as if listening. Miss Jones represents someone who may hold the key to the library's secrets, as she passes by a specific shelf every day. Her height and attentiveness suggest her ability to hear the whispers and unlock the knowledge hidden within the books.

Q: What does the phrase "the great secret" refer to in the poem?

"The great secret" in the poem refers to the knowledge or wisdom contained within the unopened books. It is implied that these books hold valuable information that has been forgotten or overlooked by others, potentially only known to Miss Jones.

Q: Why does the speaker mention that they hear nothing while Miss Jones hears something?

The mention of the speaker hearing nothing while Miss Jones hears something emphasizes the mysterious and selective nature of the library's whispers. It suggests that understanding and accessing the secrets of the books requires a certain level of perception or receptiveness that the speaker currently lacks but Miss Jones possesses.

Q: What is the overall atmosphere or mood of the poem?

The overall atmosphere or mood of the poem is one of intrigue, nostalgia, and curiosity. The imagery of the abandoned angels and the quietness of the library contribute to a sense of mystery and a longing to uncover the forgotten knowledge held within.

Q: What is the significance of the contrast between light and darkness in the poem?

The contrast between light and darkness in the poem represents the shift from a time when angels were plentiful and light filled the sky to the present moment of darkness and hidden knowledge. It symbolizes the loss or disregard of spiritual or divine understanding in contemporary society.

Takeaways

The poem "In the Library" by Charles Simic explores the theme of forgotten knowledge and hidden wisdom. Through the imagery of a deserted 'A Dictionary of Angels' and a quiet library, the poem raises questions about the abundance of angels in the past, the secret contained within the unopened books, and the potential significance of Miss Jones in unraveling the library's mysteries. It evokes a sense of curiosity, nostalgia, and a desire to rediscover the lost spiritual knowledge that lies dormant within the pages.