Poetry Analysis

The poem 'What Her Hands Know' explores the delicate and intimate work of an embalmer, juxtaposing the technical process with personal introspection. The opening lines describe the precise actions of the embalmer, who 'threads the trocar just beneath the rib' and 'empties out what death cannot keep still.' This imagery highlights the meticulous nature of her work, as she uses 'wax and skill' to fill the voids left by death. The embalmer's actions, such as wiring the jaw, are portrayed as both technical and tender, ensuring that 'no word more can slip' and maintaining a 'cooling room exact and chill.' The poem captures the calm and composed atmosphere she creates, which 'grief cannot yet grip.'

As the poem shifts to the embalmer's personal life, it reveals her own vulnerability and search for proof of life. At night, she touches her 'own restless skin,' seeking a sense of vitality that 'no measured wax, no wire pulled taut and thin' can provide. The contrast between her professional precision and personal uncertainty is stark, as she longs for 'just weight, just warmth, just something moving in' beneath her hand. This transition from the embalming room to her introspective moments underscores the theme of life and death, and the human desire for connection and proof of existence.

The emotional arc of the poem moves from the calm, controlled environment of the embalming room to the quiet desperation of the embalmer's personal reflections. The tone is contemplative and somber, capturing the duality of her role as both a caretaker of the dead and a seeker of life.

Literary devices such as imagery and contrast are used effectively to convey the poem's themes. The vivid descriptions of the embalming process create a stark visual, while the contrast between the embalmer's professional and personal life adds depth to her character. The poem's free verse form allows for a fluid exploration of these themes without the constraints of rhyme or meter.

Ultimately, 'What Her Hands Know' reflects on the nature of life and death, and the human need for connection and meaning. It highlights the often-overlooked work of those who care for the dead, while also delving into the personal struggles and introspections of the living. The poem's exploration of these themes resonates with contemporary readers, offering a poignant reflection on mortality and existence.