Ova. Among. the. Neighbours
The work explores the complexities of human consciousness and identity within the framework of societal and cultural expectations. It begins with a reflection on the individual’s experience, emphasizing the struggle against the overwhelming presence of collective consciousness. The protagonist grapples with the realization that their personal journey is shared by countless others, leading to a sense of disillusionment. The narrative delves into the impact of familial and national constructs on personal identity, suggesting that individuals are often molded by the traditions and institutions surrounding them. The imagery of indigenous neighbors and their deities serves to highlight the contrast between the primal and the civilized, illustrating how cultural heritage shapes perceptions of self and community. As the protagonist navigates their existence, they confront the paradox of belonging and isolation. The suburban children, representative of a middle-class upbringing, are depicted as tethered to their homeland yet emotionally detached. This duality reflects a broader commentary on the nature of identity in a modern context, where individuals may feel connected to their roots while simultaneously experiencing a sense of alienation. The text critiques the societal obsession with innocence and childhood, portraying a landscape where adult anxieties manifest in the idealization of youth. The juxtaposition of nurturing environments with the absurdities of adult expectations reveals a tension between the desire for purity and the realities of growing up. Ultimately, the work presents a meditation on existence, urging a reconsideration of how individuals relate to their cultural and familial legacies. It challenges the reader to reflect on the interplay between personal agency and the weight of collective history, suggesting that true understanding of self may require a reconciliation with both the past and the present.
By Mina Loy · First published 1917 · Genre: Modernist Poetry, Lyrical Poetry, Social Commentary · 743 words
First lines
(The drama of) a human consciousness (played to the inattentive audience of the Infinite) gyrates on the ego -- axis intoxicates with the cosmic proposition of being it
Till the inconsiderate competitional brunt of its similars informs it of several millions "pulling the same stunt" this consciousness within her uncurled itself upon the rollers of objective experience printing impressions vaguely and variedly upon Ova In place of the more formulate education coming naturally to the units of a national instigation
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Ova. Among. the. Neighbours is listed on Textopian as a poem by Mina Loy, dated 1917 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Mina Loy
- Date: 1917 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Modernist Poetry, Lyrical Poetry, Social Commentary, Existential Literature, Surrealism
- Length: 743 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Confusing
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Genres
- Modernist Poetry — The work employs experimental language and structure, characteristic of modernist poetry, focusing on subjective experience and consciousness.
- Lyrical Poetry — The text features a strong emotional and personal voice, typical of lyrical poetry, exploring themes of identity and existence.
- Social Commentary — The poem critiques societal norms and constructs, particularly regarding family and national identity, reflecting on the human condition.
- Existential Literature — The exploration of consciousness and the individual's place in the universe aligns with existential themes.
Tags
Experimental poetry · Modernist literature · Stream-of-consciousness narrative · Feminist themes · Surrealism · Autobiographical elements · Fragmented structure · Disjointed syntax · Playful use of language · Anti-narrative techniques · Experimentation with form · Rejection of traditional poetry forms