"Axe Handles" is a tapestry of poetic reflection, weaving together personal insights, cultural wisdom, and a deep appreciation for nature. Gary Snyder blends personal anecdotes with philosophical musings, creating a rich narrative that underscores the importance of tradition, family, and the environment. The collection is a testament to the interconnectedness of life and art, each piece contributing to a broader understanding of Snyder's world.

Metaphor and Legacy in "Axe Handles"

The title poem in Axe Handles encapsulates Snyder's foundational beliefs through the metaphor of a tool, symbolizing human potential and artistic endeavor. The poem reflects on the continuity of cultural traditions, as Snyder draws inspiration from Ezra Pound, whose words echo in his mind: “When making an axe handle/ the pattern is not far off.” This metaphor illustrates not only the physical act of crafting but also the transmission of accumulated knowledge through generations.

Craftsmanship and Cultural Transmission

Snyder's metaphor extends to his own family, as he describes crafting an axe handle with his son, Kai. This process becomes a vivid illustration of cultural and familial bonds, as he observes, "And he sees." The poem succinctly aligns past, present, and future, showcasing the perpetual rhythm of cultural heritage through the lines, “Pound was an Axe,/ Chen was an axe, I am an axe/ And my son a handle.” This chain of continuity emphasizes the enduring "craft of culture" that Snyder values.

The Beauty in Everyday Labor

An appreciation for tools is further explored in the poem "Removing the Plate of the Pump/ on the Hydraulic System/ of the Backhoe." The seemingly mundane task of maintenance becomes an artistic reflection, as evidenced in the verse:

Through mud, fouled nuts, black grime it opens, a gleam of spotless steel machined-fit perfect swirl of intake and output relentless clarity at the heart of work

This poem merges lyrical beauty with a philosophical observation, emphasizing the fundamental essence of work and craftsmanship that Snyder holds dear.

Exploring Nature and Community

The poems in "Axe Handles" are deeply rooted in the natural world, with journal entries that capture the changing moods of landscapes and seasons. Snyder often revisits classic works, such as his interpretation of Matsuo Bashō’s famous haiku, “Old Pond.” His vivid portrayals bring to life various terrains, as seen in poems like "True Night," "So Old," or "Geese Gone Beyond," where Snyder intimately connects the natural world with his family's home—a sanctuary that nurtures and supports them.

Connections Across Cultures

Many poems stem from Snyder’s experiences in Japan, like "At the Ibaru Family Tomb/ Tagami village, great Loo Choo: Grandfather of my sons," which bridge his American roots with his engagement in Asian cultures. Snyder’s intimate connections with Japan enrich his cultural perspective, adding depth to his observations and poetic narratives. Similarly, his political poems, such as "Talking Late with the Governor/ about the Budget," reflect his engagement with contemporary issues, adding another layer to his meditative reflections.

Commitment to Community and Environment

Snyder concludes the collection with an optimistic recasting of the "Pledge of Allegiance" in "For All," which serves as an oath to responsibility and renewal. Snyder's "Turtle Island"—his cherished ecosystem—is celebrated as a bastion of his core values. This piece calls for protection and revitalization, echoing a commitment to the diversity and richness of his environmental and cultural heritage.