to be of use piercy

3 min read 30-11-2024

Marge Piercy's "To Be of Use" is more than just a poem; it's a manifesto for a life lived with purpose and meaning. This powerful piece resonates deeply with readers because it speaks to a fundamental human desire: to feel needed, to contribute, and to find fulfillment in our work. The poem's enduring popularity lies in its simple yet profound message about the value of honest labor and the satisfaction derived from tangible contributions to society.

The Importance of Physical Labor and Skill

Piercy's poem directly challenges the societal devaluation of manual labor. It champions the dignity of work, regardless of its perceived social status. She contrasts the sterile, detached world of the "ivory tower" with the grounded reality of hands soiled by honest work.

"The work of the world is common as mud. Bottoms of hearts are swept out."

These lines highlight the mundane yet essential nature of manual labor. The "mud" represents the everyday realities of physical work, and the sweeping of "bottoms of hearts" suggests a deeper, emotional cleansing that comes with contributing to something larger than oneself.

Honesty and Purpose in Work

The poem emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and integrity in one's work. It's not merely about doing something, but doing something meaningful. Piercy celebrates the craftsperson, the builder, the farmer—those who create tangible results and contribute to the well-being of others.

"I want to be with people who submerge in the task, who go into the fields to harvest and work in a way that is natural."

This yearning for authentic connection with one's work is central to the poem's message. It rejects the superficiality of tasks performed without passion or commitment. The poem encourages readers to seek work that aligns with their values and brings them a sense of satisfaction.

The Rejection of the "Ivory Tower" Mentality

The poem directly critiques a life detached from physical reality, symbolized by the "ivory tower." This represents academic or intellectual pursuits that lack tangible impact or connection to the needs of society. Piercy suggests that such a life, while potentially intellectually stimulating, lacks the grounding and purpose found in manual labor.

The Value of Tangible Contributions

Piercy contrasts the abstract with the concrete. The poem elevates the value of creating something tangible, something that can be seen, touched, and used. This is a stark contrast to the theoretical or abstract pursuits that might leave one feeling disconnected from the real world and its needs. This emphasis on tangible contributions highlights the importance of direct impact.

"I want to be among those who are not too beautiful to get their hands dirty."

This line is a powerful rejection of the notion that physical work is somehow beneath those of higher social standing. It celebrates the beauty in getting one's hands dirty, in actively participating in the creation and maintenance of the world around us.

Finding Fulfillment Through Service to Others

"To Be of Use" is ultimately a call to action. It's an invitation to find fulfillment not in self-aggrandizement but in service to others. The poem suggests that true happiness lies not in the pursuit of wealth or status but in the simple act of contributing to the common good.

The Importance of Community and Collaboration

The poem subtly emphasizes the importance of community and collaboration. The shared experience of working together, whether in a field or a workshop, fosters a sense of connection and belonging. This shared purpose transcends individual ambition and cultivates a sense of unity and shared purpose.

"These hands scale mountains, build bridges, and carry babies."

These powerful images convey the diverse and essential roles that hands play in our lives. The hands aren't just tools for labor; they are symbols of human connection and contribution.

The Enduring Legacy of "To Be of Use"

Marge Piercy's "To Be of Use" continues to inspire and challenge readers decades after its publication. Its message about the importance of meaningful work, the dignity of labor, and the fulfillment found in serving others remains as relevant today as it was when it was first written. The poem serves as a potent reminder of the importance of finding our place in the world and contributing to something larger than ourselves. It is a timeless call to action, urging us to find ways to be useful, to be of service, and to find meaning in the work we do. The poem's impact lies not just in its words, but in the enduring question it poses: How can I be of use?