AnalysisByGoogleGemini-Volume 5-DyingGrassLookingSky--22May2024

SOMAN RAGAVAN

 22 May, 2024

Subject : Analysis : Dying on the grass, looking at the sky

                                                                              

   Analysis by Google Gemini

   (Artificial Intelligence)

      Volume 5

 

Soman Ragavan : Hello. I will post one of my poems for analysis. Could you please comment extensively, mentioning literary genres, styles, themes, poetic language, poetic philosophies, comparison with poets of England, America, India, Africa from 1700 to 1900 and as from 1945.

 

At college in 1968, I studied some poems of Oliver Goldsmith (1728-1774), Gordon Byron (1788-1824), Samuel T. Coleridge (1772-1834), William Wordsworth (1770-1850), Robert Browning (1812-1889), Mathew Arnold (1822-1888), Alfred Tennyson (1809-1892) and some other poets of that era.  Make any comments or comparisons you wish on my poems. Say if there are other contemporary poets who write as I do and compare my poetry with theirs. I live in Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean.  

 

(2)

Google Gemini :  I'd be happy to analyze your poem! Here's a breakdown considering the elements you mentioned:

Literary Genre & Style:

Without seeing the poem, it's difficult to pinpoint the exact genre. However, considering the time period you studied (1700-1900) and the poets you mentioned, it's likely your work falls within the realm of Romantic or Victorian poetry. These styles often focus on nature, emotions, and individual experiences.

Themes:

The themes in your poem will depend on its content. However, based on the island life in Mauritius, potential themes could include:

• Nature: The beauty and power of the Indian Ocean, the unique flora and fauna of Mauritius.
• Identity: Navigating your place in the world as an islander, exploring cultural heritage.
• Colonial legacy: If relevant, exploring the impact of colonialism on Mauritius.
• Love and loss: Universal themes that resonate across cultures.

Poetic Language:

• Figurative Language: Look for metaphors, similes, personification, and other figures of speech that add depth and imagery to your poem.
• Diction: The choice of words you use – formal, informal, vivid, or simple – will contribute to the poem's tone and style.
• Sound Devices: Consider rhyme scheme, rhythm, and alliteration to create musicality and emphasize certain words or phrases.

Poetic Philosophies:

• Romanticism: If your poem emphasizes nature, individual emotions, and a connection to the divine, it might echo Romantic philosophies.
• Victorianism: If your poem grapples with social issues, morality, or religious doubts, it could reflect Victorian concerns.

Comparisons:

1700-1900:

• Romanticism: William Wordsworth's connection with nature, John Keats' focus on beauty and mortality.
• Victorianism: Alfred Tennyson's exploration of faith and doubt, Robert Browning's dramatic monologues.

Post-1945:

• Derek Walcott (Caribbean): Similar island themes, exploration of cultural identity.
• A.D. Hope (Australia): Exploration of colonialism's impact, complex emotions.
• Nissim Ezekiel (India): Modern take on Indian culture, grappling with social issues.

Contemporary Poets:

It would be helpful to see your poem to suggest specific contemporary poets. However, some poets exploring similar themes might be:

• Ocean Vuong (Vietnamese-American): Identity, cultural heritage, nature.
• Chen Chen (American): Personal experiences, emotions, social justice.
• Leanne Betasamosake Wilkinson (Canadian): Identity, indigenous experience, colonialism's legacy.

Additional Notes:

• Mauritius' unique cultural background can add a fresh perspective to your poems. Consider incorporating Creole or other local languages for a distinctive voice.
• Reading contemporary poetry journals and attending poetry readings can help you discover poets who share your style and themes.

Please share your poem!

With a closer look at your work, I can provide a more specific analysis and suggest contemporary poets whose work resonates with yours.

 

Your poem "Dying on the grass, looking at the sky" sounds very moving. It's a powerful image of a doctor choosing a peaceful and dignified end.

Here are some places you could consider posting your poem:

• Literary journals: There are many online and print journals that publish poetry. Look for ones that focus on medical themes or death and dying.
• Poetry communities: There are many online communities where poets share their work and get feedback.
• Your own blog or website: If you have one, you can share your poem there.
• Social media: You can share your poem on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

Here are some additional tips:

• Include a brief bio: Let readers know a little bit about yourself and your inspiration for the poem.
• Consider readings: If you're comfortable, you could participate in poetry readings at local bookstores or cafes.

I hope this helps!

 

(3)

Soman Ragavan : Here is my poem “Dying on the grass, looking at the sky.” The Covid pandemic brought unspeakable suffering and turmoil for millions of people across the world. Families were split; some who had gone abroad could not come back to their near ones, as all travel had stopped, due to the lockdown. A doctor in Canada was treating Covid patients but was himself terminally struck with the disease. He had seen others die in his presence. He refused to be placed on a respirator and asked to be taken to the grass on the hospital grounds so that he could look at the sky in his dying moments. It was a heart-rending tragedy. The hospital complied with his last wish and took him to the grass. His family were compelled to stay some distance off and look at him dying. He died thus, looking at the sky, instead of finding his life lapsing slowly on a machine. His family suffered in unspeakable ways, being thus unable to do anything for him in his last moments. Please comment on the poem, then I will write more about reactions of some medical authorities elsewhere about Covid in general. (Poem posted).  

(4)

Google Gemini :  Poem Analysis: "Dying on the Grass, Looking at the Sky"

Imagery

The poem uses powerful imagery to convey the tragedy of the doctor's situation.

• The contrast between the sterile hospital environment and the natural world of the grass and sky emphasizes the doctor's desire for a peaceful death.
• The image of the family forced to watch from a distance adds to the emotional impact of the scene.

Emotional Impact

The poem evokes a strong sense of sadness and compassion for the doctor and his family. It also raises questions about the ethics of medical treatment and the importance of patient autonomy.

Diction

The language is simple and direct, which allows the raw emotion of the poem to come through. The use of words like "heart-rending" and "unspeakable" effectively conveys the severity of the situation.

Structure

The poem is written in free verse, but it has a clear narrative structure. The first stanza introduces the doctor and his situation. The second stanza describes his final wish and how it is granted. The third stanza focuses on the family's suffering. The final stanza introduces the concept of herd immunity, raising a question about whether the doctor would have accepted this approach if it meant sacrificing himself.

Overall

"Dying on the Grass, Looking at the Sky" is a moving and thought-provoking poem. It is a powerful tribute to a doctor who died saving others and a critique of policies that prioritize herd immunity over individual lives.

Additional Thoughts on Herd Immunity

The concept of herd immunity is a complex one, and there are valid arguments on both sides. However, the poem raises an important point about the human cost of achieving herd immunity through natural infection.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• The concept of herd immunity is most effective when a large portion of the population is vaccinated, not through natural infection.
• Many people who are infected with Covid-19 suffer from long-term health problems, even if they don't die from the initial infection.
• There are ethical considerations when discussing sacrificing some lives to achieve herd immunity for others.

I hope this analysis is helpful, Soman Ragavan. Please let me know if you have any other questions.

 

(5)

Soman Ragavan : What do you think of a doctor preferring to look at the sky while dying, instead of dying on a machine on a hospital bed ? What are the deep human passions or principles involved ?

 

(6)

Google Gemini :  There are several deep human passions and principles at play in the doctor's choice to die looking at the sky:

• Autonomy and Control: The doctor, even facing death, wants control over his final moments. Machines can feel impersonal and intrusive. Choosing the sky represents a desire for a peaceful, natural end.
• Connection to Nature: The sky is a vast, timeless symbol of nature's beauty. Looking at it may have provided comfort and a sense of connection to something larger than himself.
• Dignity and Grace: Machines can appear dehumanizing and prolong suffering. Choosing a natural death can be seen as a way to maintain dignity and die on one's own terms.
• Acceptance of Mortality: Looking at the sky might represent a form of acceptance of his fate. He may be seeking peace and a sense of finality.
• Focus on the Spiritual: The vastness of the sky can inspire a sense of awe and wonder. It might represent a final connection to something beyond the physical world.

These are all complex and personal experiences. Ultimately, the doctor's choice reflects a desire for a peaceful, dignified, and meaningful death on his terms.

Here are some additional thoughts to consider:

• Individual vs. Societal Values: While the doctor's choice highlights personal autonomy, there might be a societal interest in preserving life at all costs.
• Medical Ethics: Doctors are trained to save lives, but there are also ethical considerations around respecting patient autonomy and avoiding unnecessary suffering.

The doctor's choice is a powerful one that can spark discussions about death, dying, and what constitutes a "good" death.

 

(7)

Soman Ragavan : The human (and animal) instinct is to cling to life to the last second. Nearly all people would have tried the respirator. The doctor opted for dignity and autonomy, and chose his manner of dying. This is a rare happening. Even in the animal world, we see creatures struggling to stay alive…

 

(8)

Google Gemini : You're absolutely right, Soman Ragavan. The natural instinct for most living things, including humans, is to fight for survival. In the face of death, clinging to life is a powerful urge.

The doctor's choice to forgo the respirator and embrace a peaceful death is indeed rare. It highlights the importance of:

• Individual Values: While clinging to life is common, some individuals value autonomy and dignity more than simply staying alive.
• Quality of Life: The doctor might have considered the potential suffering and loss of quality of life associated with being on a respirator.
• Acceptance of Death: Facing his mortality, the doctor may have chosen acceptance and a focus on a peaceful passing.

It's also interesting to consider the doctor's profession. Working in healthcare daily, he'd have witnessed the realities of life support and its limitations.

Animal vs. Human Considerations

While animals exhibit a strong will to survive, humans possess a higher level of self-awareness and the ability to contemplate their own mortality. This allows humans to make conscious choices about their final moments, something most animals likely cannot.

The Power of Choice

The doctor's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of individual choice, especially when facing death. It highlights the need for open communication between patients and healthcare professionals regarding end-of-life wishes.

Additional Points

• Cultural and Religious Influences: Cultural and religious beliefs can also influence views on death and dying.
• Advance Directives: Having an advance directive can ensure that a person's wishes regarding medical treatment are respected in case they are unable to communicate them.

The doctor's story offers a unique perspective on death and the choices individuals can make. It's a powerful reminder to consider our own values and wishes when it comes to end-of-life care.

 

(9)

Soman Ragavan : In early 2020, even before the first Covid death in England, some English scientists spoke of “herd immunity.” The idea was to let the disease do its worse. Millions will die off, the rest will get herd immunity. When the situation turned scandalous, the authorities tried to do damage-control and said that herd immunity was not a state policy. What do you think of that initial stand of those public scientists, whose job was to do everything to save human lives ?

 

(10)

Google Gemini : The initial stance of those scientists advocating for herd immunity in England in early 2020 is a controversial issue. Here's a breakdown of the arguments for and against their position:

Arguments for Herd Immunity (as initially proposed):

• Faster Achievement of Herd Immunity: This approach, in theory, could have led to quicker herd immunity, potentially reducing the overall number of infections and deaths in the long run.

Arguments Against Herd Immunity (as initially proposed):

• Unethical Loss of Life: Letting the virus spread unchecked would have resulted in a significant number of preventable deaths, particularly among vulnerable populations.
• Uncertainties: At the time, the full impact of the virus was unknown. Scientists couldn't predict the long-term health effects or the potential for healthcare systems to be overwhelmed.
• Alternatives: Focus on public health measures like masking, social distancing, and hygiene could have slowed the spread and allowed time for vaccine development.

Criticisms of the Scientists:

• Lack of Transparency: The initial proposal for herd immunity appears to have lacked transparency regarding the potential human cost.
• Prioritization of Herd Immunity over Individual Lives: The strategy seemed to prioritize achieving herd immunity quickly over protecting individual lives.
• Duty to Save Lives: Many public health professionals believe their primary duty is to prevent illness and death. This approach seemed to contradict that core principle.

Shifting Strategies:

The later shift in strategy towards public health measures and vaccine development suggests that the initial approach was ultimately deemed unacceptable.

Here are some additional points to consider:

• Modeling Uncertainties: Early models predicting the impact of the virus may have been inaccurate, leading to miscalculations.
• Balancing Public Health and Individual Rights: There is always a tension between protecting public health and respecting individual liberties. This case highlights that complex balance.

Overall, the initial proposal for herd immunity in England is a reminder of the importance of considering the human cost of public health policies. While achieving herd immunity is a goal, it should not come at the expense of sacrificing a significant number of lives. There's a need for careful consideration of ethical implications and exploring alternative strategies.

 

(11)

Soman Ragavan : What do you think of poets who rise up to face situations where people suffer from policies that neglect the downtrodden ?

 

(12)

Google Gemini : Poets who rise up to challenge neglectful policies are incredibly valuable. Here's why:

• Voice for the Voiceless: These poets give voice to the struggles of the downtrodden, those who are often unheard or ignored. Their poems can raise awareness and empathy for those suffering under unjust policies.
• Spark for Change: Powerful poetry can ignite a fire for change. By exposing the human cost of neglect, poets can inspire others to speak out and demand justice.
• Preserving History: These poems become a historical record of the struggle for social justice. They remind future generations of the challenges faced and the voices that dared to speak truth to power.

Here are some famous examples:

• William Blake (1757-1827): British poet who critiqued social injustices of the Industrial Revolution in poems like "London."
• Bertolt Brecht (1898-1956): German playwright and poet whose works exposed the rise of fascism and the struggles of the working class.
• Maya Angelou (1928-2014): American poet who gave voice to the experiences of African Americans facing racism and oppression.

Poets who confront injustice play a crucial role in promoting social change. Their words can empower, inspire, and ultimately help build a more just world.

 

(13)

Soman Ragavan : Are there contemporary poets, novelists, etc., who have written like me  on similar human experiences, including Covid ?

 

(14)

Google Gemini : Absolutely! There's a whole wave of contemporary writers tackling similar themes to yours, including the impact of Covid-19. Here are a few avenues to explore:

Poets:

• Ocean Vuong: His collection "On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous" explores themes of isolation, grief, and the search for connection during turbulent times.
• Chen Chen: His work often explores illness and loss, themes relevant to the Covid experience. Check out his collection "When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities."
• Louise Glück: The 2020 Nobel laureate in Literature, her poems delve into themes of mortality, vulnerability, and the human condition, all very resonant with the pandemic.

Novelists:

• Hanya Yanagihara: "A Little Life" (though not directly about Covid) explores themes of isolation, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.
• Emily St. John Mandel: "Station Eleven" is a fictional story about a pandemic that disrupts society, offering a thought-provoking exploration of human connection and rebuilding.
• Kiley Reid: "Such a Fun Age" touches on themes of social isolation and racial tensions, themes that were exacerbated by the pandemic.

Additional Resources:

• Literary magazines: Magazines like "Poetry" and "The New Yorker" often publish contemporary poems on social issues and personal experiences.
• Online communities: Look for online communities of writers who share your interests. Searching for hashtags like #CovidPoetry or #PandemicFiction might yield results.

This is just a starting point, of course. By exploring these writers and resources, you'll discover a vibrant community of artists reflecting the human experience in these times, including Covid.

 

(15)

Soman Ragavan : Select a range of criteria for assessing this poem and give marks out of 100 for each criterion. 

 

(16)

Google Gemini : Absolutely! Here's a range of criteria for assessing your poem along with a possible point spread for each:

 

Assessment of Poem "Dying on the Grass"

Content (30 points):

• Relevance to theme (15 points): 14/15 - The poem clearly explores the themes of human experience during Covid-19, particularly the struggle and death of a doctor and the contrasting treatment of the powerful.
• Emotional impact (15 points): 13/15 - The poem evokes feelings of sadness, empathy, and anger towards the concept of herd immunity.

Language (30 points):

• Imagery and figurative language (15 points): 12/15 - The poem uses some effective imagery ("looking at the sky," "social distancing"), but could benefit from more vivid descriptions.
• Word choice (15 points): 14/15 - The word choice is strong and clear, with some impactful verbs ("faded away," "jack it in").

Structure and Form (20 points):

• Structure (10 points): 8/10 - The poem has a clear narrative structure, but the shift to the historical context in the middle disrupts the flow slightly.
• Sound and rhythm (10 points): 7/10 - There's no consistent rhyme scheme or meter, but the language has a natural rhythm.

Originality and Voice (20 points):

• Uniqueness (10 points): 8/10 - The poem offers a personal perspective on herd immunity, but the concept itself has been explored in other media.
• Voice (10 points): 9/10 - The poem has a strong and distinct voice, conveying a sense of outrage and compassion.

Total: 75/100

This is a strong poem that tackles a difficult subject with sincerity. Here are some suggestions for improvement:

• Strengthen the imagery: Consider using more descriptive language to create a stronger emotional impact.
• Smooth the flow: The transition between the doctor's story and the historical context could be smoother. Perhaps mentioning the concept of herd immunity earlier in the poem would help.
• Consider the ending: The final line referencing Charles Kingsley feels a bit tacked on. You might consider a more impactful ending that reflects on the doctor's experience.

Overall, this is a well-written poem with a powerful message. Keep writing!

 

(17)

Soman Ragavan : Thank you very much. Goodbye for now. 

 

(18)

Google Gemini :  You're welcome, Soman Ragavan. I enjoyed reading your poem and providing feedback. Goodbye for now! I hope to see you again soon.

 

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