Non African poetry: the telephone call by fleur Adcock
"The Telephone Call" by Fleur Adcock is a poem that explores the theme of long-distance communication and the impact it can have on our emotions. Adcock, who is originally from New Zealand but not of African descent, uses vivid imagery and language to capture the moment of receiving a phone call from a loved one.
The poem begins with the speaker describing the telephone call as if it were an unexpected visitor: "the sudden ring was fraught with tragedy." This suggests that receiving a call can often be a moment of suspense or anxiety. The speaker then describes the physical sensations that come with answering the phone, such as the "silence buzzing in my ear" and the feeling of being in "somebody else’s dream."
As the poem progresses, it becomes apparent that the call is from someone the speaker deeply cares about. The speaker describes feeling a surge of relief once they hear the voice on the other end, saying it is like "a lifeboat on a stormy sea." This image conveys the idea that the person on the other end of the call serves as a source of comfort and support.
However, the poem also acknowledges the limitations of a telephone call in providing true connection. The speaker describes how the voice on the other end "fades into the light" and becomes distant. This highlights the transient nature of phone conversations, where the connection can be easily broken or lost.
In the final stanza, the speaker reflects on the impact of the phone call on their emotions. They describe feeling a mixture of joy and sadness, as the call brings both happiness and a sense of longing. The speaker concludes the poem by stating that the call is a reminder of "how far apart we are." This final line suggests that, despite the ability to communicate through technology, distance and separation still exist.
"The Telephone Call" by Fleur Adcock is a non-African poem that explores the emotional complexities of long-distance communication. Through its vivid imagery and introspective tone, the poem captures the temporary and bittersweet nature of phone conversations, reminding us of the distance that technology can't bridge.