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Barnfield Conference 2023

Conference Review: “LIVING FAME NO FORTUNE CAN CONFOUND”: RICHARD BARNFIELD’S LEGACY

The Richard Barnfield Legacy Conference, held at Sapienza University of Rome from February 9th to 10th, 2023, presented a remarkable array of scholarly work, analysing the intricate aspects of Richard Barnfield’s poetry and influence. My own contribution was the presentation of the paper titled ‘”Otherwise (then) In Truth I meant”: Homoeroticism in Richard Barnfield’s Poetry,’ delivered on February 10th at 10 am. This session was expertly chaired by Professor Andrew Hadfield of Sussex University.

The paper’s exploration of homoerotic themes within Barnfield’s work was both insightful and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on the poet’s legacy. The presentation skilfully navigated complex literary analysis, making a compelling case for re-examining the undercurrents of Barnfield’s poetry through the lens of homoeroticism.

Audience engagement was notably high during this session, with the paper receiving an overwhelmingly positive response. The depth of research and eloquence in delivery marked this presentation as a significant contribution to the conference. It not only enriched the attendees’ understanding of Barnfield’s work but also sparked lively discussions and debates, further emphasising the paper’s impact.

The success of so many fascinating papers at the conference is a testament to the ongoing relevance of Richard Barnfield’s poetry in contemporary literary studies. Updates from the conference were actively shared on Twitter under @BarnfieldConf23, fostering a wider engagement with the academic community.

Overall, the “Living Fame No Fortune Can Confound”: Richard Barnfield’s Legacy Conference was a once in a generaton opporunity to celebrate the poetry of Richard Barnfield, and a memorable and valuable conference to the field of early modern literary studies.

Richard Barnfield’s Legacy International Conference “Living fame no fortune can confound’: Richard Barnfield’s Legacy” – Sapienza University of Rome (9-10 February 2023).

Slide images courtesy of Clive Hicks-Jenkins
Photo credit: Dr Cristiano Ragni
With thanks to Sapienza University of Rome & the organisers:
Cristiano Ragni, Camilla Caporicci, Fabio Ciambella.

Hyperion

Reviewing these poems, one encounters a rich tapestry of emotion, introspection, and philosophical exploration. They range from the melancholic and introspective to the powerful and socially critical, reflecting a deep engagement with both personal and broader human experiences.

Epigraph (John Keats, Hyperion: A Fragment, Book III. (1819))

This excerpt from Keats’s “Hyperion” resonates with a profound sense of melancholy and existential questioning. The speaker feels weighed down by an inexplicable sadness, yearning for a lost sense of freedom and purpose. Keats’s use of language and imagery captures a deep sense of longing and the pain of unrealised potential.

The Great Physician

This poem explores themes of longing, fulfilment, and the search for meaning in life. The imagery of driving through a storm towards a lake symbolises a journey through turmoil towards peace or clarity. The poem’s conclusion, suggesting that true resolution comes through a form of metaphorical death, hints at the idea of rebirth or transformation as a path to overcoming inner conflicts.

Hyperion

This poem is a complex meditation on divinity, knowledge, and the human condition. The references to a ‘super brain’, ‘Divine Holograms’, and the ‘Central Sun’ are particularly evocative, suggesting a search for a higher understanding or connection. The poem grapples with the nature of God and the human quest for enlightenment, blending scientific and spiritual imagery in a compelling way.

Dark Fire

“Dark Fire” delves into the intensity of passion and love, using vivid imagery to describe a deep and consuming relationship. The poem transitions from joyous celebration to a darker, more reflective tone, questioning the lasting impact of such intense emotions. The use of contrasting images like ‘bright burning firework’ and ‘dark fire’ effectively captures the complexities of love and desire.

You’re Still End

This poem reflects on identity, destiny, and the inexorable march towards an end, possibly death. It speaks to the shared human condition, the unavoidable nature of change, and the search for meaning in the face of these realities. The poem’s sombre tone suggests a resignation to fate, while also acknowledging the power of human emotions and experiences.

Lumpenproletarian

Here, the poet offers a critical view of societal structures and class distinctions, using the term ‘chavs’ to represent a marginalised group. The poem seems to critique both societal views of this group and the group’s own internal struggles. The imagery of ‘hooded monks’ and ‘dark-skinned and cold’ individuals suggests a complex interplay between societal perceptions and personal identity.

Striving in the Path of God

This poem explores themes of moral judgment, societal control, and the struggle between higher ideals and base instincts. The imagery of ‘invisible policemen’ and the ‘edifice teeters’ suggests a conflict between societal order and personal freedom. The poem’s intense and sometimes violent imagery reflects a deep engagement with the challenges of living a moral life in a complex world.

Overall, these poems by Harry Matthews offer a rich exploration of human emotion, existential struggle, and the quest for meaning. They blend personal introspection with broader social commentary, using vivid imagery and powerful language to engage the reader on multiple levels.

Hyperion 

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Harry Matthews (29 Dec. 2020)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 78 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1838349812
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1838349813
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 12.85 x 0.48 x 19.84 cm
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