Gregory Corso was a New York City native in 1930. He rose to prominence in the beat movement. Gregory Corso’s thoughts and wild ideas are evident in his signature work. Gregory Corso has a conversation about his fears and discusses the possible situations that he may find himself in. This text, despite its disorienting imagery and irony, has a positive message about modern relationships.
Corso begins his discussion on marriage with these questions: “Should it be me?” (1). This basically means that marriage is about becoming good. He expects that marriage will be his. It shows that he is capable and willing to fall in love with someone. Corso discusses the possibility of Corso going out with a girl next door to see how he could surprise her by going on a date. Corso is not like other guys who go out with girls. Corso will take his girl to the graveyard instead of taking her to the movies. He wants her to love him and to kiss him, but she resists. He is known for his anger, madness, and rage, but he doesn’t let it get him down. He convinces her to go to bed with him and says “You have got to feel!” It’s wonderful to feel! Corso does his best, but he fails to get the results he desires from her. Corso will begin thinking about constellations as he plans his next step. He feels uncomfortable when he meets his parents. He tried his best to appear educated. He didn’t even need to ask where it was. He believes these are the best steps to follow if his girl wants her parents’ approval. After gaining his approval, he said, “Say All right, get marital, we’re losing an infant but are also gaining one” (22). He was unsure if he should ask for a bathroom. He described the priest’s gaze as if it was masturbating. The priest then asked him if he would take the woman to be his lawful spouse. He hesitates, then he yells “Pie glue”, which basically means “I do”. The young men congratulate him and give their congratulations. The newlyweds are then sent off to their honeymoon sport. This is where many couples will be able to do the “same” thing (39) to consummate the marriage. This is because honeymooners view it as a chore. It is important to do it in order to show the love and expression it brings. I deny Honeymoon! / running wild through those almost-climatic suites/ yelling Radio Belly! Use a cat shovel (44-45). This is the demon side of his marriage. This text indicates that the couple are being trapped in a bad situation or falling into it.
The speaker was trying to imagine how he might have a happy marriage. He imagines how his life might be at this particular time and place. He would eventually imagine that the best part of his day would be when his spouse would cook the roast. He still believes his life is peaceful, even though it isn’t. Then he started to reflect on the stupidities he committed. “Christmas Teeth! Radiant brains! He calls himself “Apple Deaf” (59). He also remembers times when he spoke strange words to strangers who stopped by his house. He also thought about his daily life and the things that shaped his marriage. He imagined a snow-covered Connecticut home with his adorable little children. He wondered what boring life he could lead. He thought about what he wanted, and how boring his life could be.
Corso’s poem symbolizes the emotion of love. He is trying figure out what he should do with his life. He is trying not to think about what to do if marriage was all he had to do. This couple clearly loved and resented each other. He knows that he is willing to make sacrifices if he finds “the one” for his love. This poem’s theme reminds us of the beauty of marriage, which is an act that is based on love and commitment. It gives a man/woman the chance to develop selflessness.
Works cited:
Corso, Gregory. “Marriage” Happy Birthday to Death In 1960, New Directions released a new book. Pages 29-32 discuss the importance of being able to effectively communicate with others. It is noted that communication is a key skill for all relationships, be it personal or professional. It is emphasized that being able to listen, comprehend, and respond appropriately to what is being said is essential for successful communication. Additionally, the ability to express oneself clearly, as well as being able to understand the perspective of others, is also important for effective communication. Furthermore, it is suggested that focusing on the needs of the other person, rather than one’s own, can help build strong relationships.
