Constantly Risking Absurdity #15 by Lawrence Ferlinghetti

The poem Constantly Risking Absurdity, by Lawrence Ferlinghetti is an insightful description of a poet’s performance before his/her audience. He describes the poet’s performance as an acrobat doing extreme dramatization. In reality an acrobat puts up an amazing performance; doing various unbelievable movements in the air. However Ferlinghetti may be comparing the way in which the poet delivers his written word to that of an acrobat’s performance. The poet’s effect on his audience’s thoughts towards his presentation may seem to be more than just what it seems. In the poem, Ferlinghetti says: “Constantly risking//absurdity //and death //whenever he performs //above the heads //of his audience // the poet like an acrobat //climbs on rime //to a high wire of his own making.”  To Ferlinghetti the poet is actually taking a risk when he is performing. As a performer, the crowd expects an outstanding delivery. Making a lasting impression really matters and so, this poem explores the possibilities of doing so or not. Like an acrobat, a poet is taking a chance. When an acrobat leaps into the air, there are only two expectations; being able to find support by latching on to another rope or taking a dangerous-- maybe near-fatal, fall. A poet’s performance can be viewed through this lens as well. His message will either bring him praise and adoration or lots of criticism from his audience. Like Ferlinghetti mentions in the poem, “And he //a little charley Chaplin man //who may or may not catch //her fair eternal form//spread-eagled in the empty air //of existence.”  It’s definitely like a fight or flight moment when one is placed in a tense position.  As weird as it may sound, our survival instincts kicks in whenever we’re performing to an audience. In this poet’s case, it may definitely be the same.