The poem "Butterfly" crafts a vivid tableau through its sixteen lines, divided into three stanzas of varying lengths. It explores nature with a twist, reversing the traditional act of observation leading to insight. Here, the butterfly is enmeshed in a web of interpretive images and ideas, inviting readers to reflect on the deeper meanings embedded within its fluttering presence.

Reversing Observation and Insight

Rather than drawing insight from observing nature, the poet embeds the butterfly in a tapestry of associations. This reversal is evident from the start as the poet directly addresses the butterfly, admiring its vibrant colors. Paradoxically, these colors are linked to the image of dust and the concept of "aftermath." This association is grounded in the natural phenomenon where touching a butterfly's wings leaves a powdery residue, but dust also evokes the biblical line, “For dust you are and to dust you shall return” (Genesis 3:19), adding an element of mortality and inevitable destruction.

Contradictory Imagery and Metaphors

The poem's next observations appear contradictory. The butterfly's journey from the earth's fiery core through its stony exterior is a dramatic image that contrasts with the butterfly's inherent fragility. Yet, if viewed through the lens of visual association, the butterfly's vibrant colors might be seen as capturing some of the fire's glow, and its markings could be likened to exquisite enamels forged in a kiln. The metaphorical "Webs of farewell in the transient measure" then challenges readers to reflect on themes of death and transition.

The Butterfly as a Night Creature

In a surprising twist, the poet hails the butterfly as a creature of the night—not in a demonic sense, but a blessed one. This is curious, given the butterfly's dependence on sunlight. Scholar Matthias Krieg suggests this positive nocturnal connection may symbolize dreams. Considering dreams as a transitional state between consciousness and unconsciousness, the butterfly embodies life's and death's burdens, projected onto its delicate wings. Eventually, the butterfly alights on a rose, momentarily becoming just a butterfly, disentangled from abstract connotations.

Symbols of Transition and Transformation

The surrounding ideas persist, casting an aura over the poem that extends to a wilting rose and a setting sun in the latter part of the second section. Lines 13 and 14 echo the poem's beginning, as the butterfly's colorful designs shift into a metaphorical realm, transforming into an intricate system of signs. The concluding lines' grammatical ambiguity leaves the butterfly's role as a royal sign or bearer of a royal sign unresolved. Despite this uncertainty, the term “royal” suggests a reverent belief in the world's order. Thus, the butterfly evolves into a profound symbol of meanings, carrying on its wings a mysterious, yet regal, system of ciphers.

The poem "Butterfly" by Nelly Sachs captures a lyrical essence through evocative imagery and a distinctive use of language, despite forgoing traditional metrical patterns. It begins with a direct address to the butterfly, weaving its way through an extended apostrophe that is rich with admiration. Sachs employs various descriptive epithets and vivid portrayals to build a picture that resonates with readers.

Metaphor stands as the central poetic device in "Butterfly," showcasing Sachs's ability to expand and adapt this literary tool into an all-encompassing symbol. Her metaphors traverse between familiar references and a deeply personal realm, colored by her own life experiences and her exploration of mysticism, both Jewish and Christian. This approach adds layers to her work, inviting interpretations that resonate on multiple levels.

The butterfly, in its traditional symbolism, conjures images of spring, renewal, and hope, inherently tied to the sun and the themes of light and optimism. Its vibrant hues further connect it to...