A 3, - 3, by Louis Zukofsky

The Argentine newspaper Perfil has featured the third movement of American poet Louis Zukofsky’s epic work "A", highlighting its poetic depth and thematic resonance. The piece was published in the cultural supplement section of Perfil, which regularly presents analyses under the title "Narcolepsia. Coordinates for an approach to poetry." This particular selection offers readers a glimpse into the intricate language and layered meaning of Zukofsky's monumental composition, which he worked on throughout his life. Zukofsky, born in 1904 in New York City’s Lower East Side to a Jewish family from Eastern Europe, studied at Columbia University, where he began writing poetry. A devoted admirer of Ezra Pound, he became one of the founders and leading theorists of Objectivism, a literary movement that emphasized clarity, sincerity, and a tangible presence in poetry. His magnum opus, "A", reflects these principles through its meticulous structure and philosophical undertones. The excerpt published by Perfil includes lines such as "Anochece, refresca", a depiction of evening coolness, and continues with imagery that juxtaposes authority figures with the quiet resistance of artistic expression. The poem critiques those who claim ownership over truth, suggesting that the role of professional journalism and critical thought is essential to democratic values. These themes are interwoven with personal reflections and symbolic references, including a memory of childhood and the metaphorical image of a restrained horse. The text also features a dialogue-like exchange, "¿Quién olió a gas?" followed by the response "Mentiria!", a phrase that hints at tension and possible danger. The mention of a broken bridge and a warning against crossing after midnight adds layers of ambiguity and foreboding. The poem further introduces elements of loss and mourning, with references to a dead body and a broken support, evoking a sense of fragmentation and unresolved grief. The publication of this segment comes from an edition titled "A" de Louis Zukofsky, Tres poemas y una entrevista, released in 2026 by Fadel & Fadel in Buenos Aires. This compilation includes three poems and an interview, offering additional context and insight into Zukofsky’s creative process and intellectual influences. The inclusion of this material in an Argentine publication underscores the international reach and enduring relevance of Zukofsky’s work, even decades after his death in 1978. Zukofsky’s influence extends beyond his native United States, with translations and interpretations appearing in various linguistic and cultural contexts. The version presented by Perfil was translated by Tomás Fadel, Matías Heer, and Miguel Ángel Petrecca, reflecting the collaborative nature of bringing complex texts to new audiences. Their translation preserves the original’s lyrical quality while making it accessible to Spanish-speaking readers. The poem’s structure and content suggest a deep engagement with both personal and collective histories, blending individual experience with broader social commentary. References to "Coeur de Lion" and "Corazón de león" evoke themes of courage and restraint, while the recurring motif of a broken object symbolizes disruption and transformation. The final lines, "Un pensamiento sobre tu corazón, pichón," offer a poignant reflection on love and vulnerability, reinforcing the emotional core of the work. The publication of this excerpt marks a continued interest in Zukofsky’s legacy, particularly among scholars and poets interested in modernist literature. As part of the ongoing discourse surrounding his work, the inclusion of "A" in Perfil contributes to a growing appreciation of his contributions to poetry and literary theory. The text invites readers to engage with its complexities, challenging them to consider the intersections of art, power, and human experience.