Changing Times by Chris Abani: Poem and Analysis

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General Introduction

"Changing Times" by Chris Abani is a reflective poem that explores the speaker's contemplation of modern conveniences and cultural influences on his life. Through a series of everyday items and experiences, the poem delves into themes of adaptation, appreciation, and self-awareness

CHANGING TIMES

Three minute spaghetti. Boil in the bag fish.

Pot noodle. A mug of Batchelor’s instant soup,

amaze me nearly as much as

microwaves, my new laptop and the

enduring power of Coltrane’s A Love Supreme

and Miles’ Kind of Blue.

It’s not that I have lowered standards

with a too grateful palate

or that much espoused masculine

fascination for new toys and old jazz.

But I am learning to taste my life

without judgement. I think.

 Title

The title "Changing Times" immediately suggests a focus on transformation and evolution, hinting at the poem's exploration of how the speaker's perceptions and experiences have changed over time.

 Themes

1. Adaptation to Modernity: The poem reflects on the speaker's adjustment to modern conveniences like microwaves and laptops, indicating a theme of adapting to the changing technological landscape. The line "I am learning to taste my life" suggests a process of becoming accustomed to these changes without judgment.

2. Appreciation of Simple Pleasures: Despite the marvel of modern inventions, the speaker also finds amazement in simple pleasures like three-minute spaghetti and instant soup. This theme highlights the importance of finding joy in the mundane.

3. Cultural Influence: References to jazz legends Coltrane and Miles Davis imply a cultural influence on the speaker's life. This theme suggests a connection between personal experiences and broader cultural influences.

4. Self-Reflection: The poem suggests a process of introspection as the speaker considers his own reactions and attitudes towards these changes. This theme of self-reflection adds depth to the poem's exploration of personal growth.

5. Non-judgmental Awareness: The final lines suggest a shift towards a non-judgmental approach to life, indicating a theme of accepting experiences without preconceived notions or biases.

 Literary Devices

1. Alliteration: "Boil in the bag fish" and "much espoused masculine" employ alliteration to create rhythm and emphasize the mundane nature of these items.

2. Repetition: The repetition of "and the" in the line "microwaves, my new laptop and the" emphasizes the speaker's list of modern conveniences, highlighting their significance in his life.

3. Metaphor: The phrase "learning to taste my life" serves as a metaphor for the speaker's process of experiencing and appreciating life without judgment, akin to savoring different flavors.

4. Irony: The speaker's acknowledgment of not having "lowered standards with a too grateful palate" ironically suggests a sense of gratitude for the simple pleasures he describes.

5. Symbolism: References to jazz classics like "A Love Supreme" and "Kind of Blue" symbolize the enduring impact of art and culture on the speaker's life.

6. Imagery: Descriptions of "Three minute spaghetti" and "microwaves" create vivid imagery, allowing readers to visualize the speaker's surroundings and experiences.

 Language and Mood

The language in the poem is straightforward and colloquial, reflecting the speaker's contemplative yet casual tone. The mood is introspective, with a sense of wonder and appreciation for both the modern and the traditional aspects of life.

 Context

Written in a modern setting, "Changing Times" reflects the speaker's experiences in a rapidly changing world. The poem likely resonates with individuals navigating similar changes in their own lives, highlighting the universal theme of adapting to new circumstances.

 Conclusion

"Changing Times" is a poignant reflection on the speaker's journey of adaptation and self-discovery in a world filled with both modern marvels and simple pleasures. Through its themes of adaptation, appreciation, and self-awareness, the poem invites readers to reflect on their own experiences and attitudes towards change.