In the poem "To the Oracle at Delphi," Lawrence Ferlinghetti addresses the mythological figure of ancient Greece, the Oracle of Delphi, also known as the Sybil. The Sybil had the power to receive prophecy from the gods and pass it to mortals. These prophecies were often cryptic, but they were considered wise guidance.
By addressing a mythological figure, Ferlinghetti connects the concept of the Sybil with the personification of art. He suggests that only art can awaken people from their corporate-induced conformity. By asking for guidance, he also creates the idea of a wiser "Golden Age" of ancient Greece, which he contrasts with the superficial, degraded modern age.
Speak out and shine upon us
the sea-light of Greece
the diamond light of Greece
Ferlinghetti invokes another mythological figure, Europa, who gave her name to the continent of Europe.
I, Americus, the American,
wrought from the dark in my mother long ago,
from the dark of ancient Europa—
By calling Europa his "mother" and referring to himself as "Americus" (the Latin variation of Amerigo, for whom the continent was named), Ferlinghetti suggests he is speaking not only as a poet but also as America. Ferlinghetti is speaking not for the modern, corporate America, but the "Old World" or "true" America of the underprivileged, whose voices often go unheard.
And speak to us in the poet's voice
the voice of the fourth person singular
the voice of the inscrutable future
the voice of the people mixed
with a wild soft laughter—
By using allusions to mythological figures, Ferlinghetti gives greater emphasis and meaning to his poem, which discusses the need for America to reinvent itself.
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