Reading about John Freyer’s collection of unneeded stuff reminded me of the poem “What’s in My Journal” by William Stafford. The first line of the poem is “Odd things, like a button drawer.” Those words seem so simple, yet isn’t it a distinct image? Sure, you probably don’t have an entire apartment you could auction off like Freyer, but you probably have a drawer or box filled with odds and ends, like Stafford’s button drawer. I know I do, and I don’t know why I keep most of it.
Freyer, of course, isn’t the first one to suggest that one can free themselves by getting rid of the clutter in their lives. It’s an ongoing cycle in the lives of many Americans. We gather nik-naks and collectibles year round, only to sell them off in a yard sale or give them away to a thrift store later on. Some call it spring cleaning. I liked Will Helfirch’s comment that “John Freyer personifies an American paradox,” as we feel the need to consume and build while still wanting individuality and freedom to move at will.
It’s interesting to see Freyer’s change in reasoning through out his project. His shift in focus from the objects to the people they belonged to following 9/11 paints a picture of the way that unfortunate event brought many Americans together. His final realization that he should stop running from things makes his journey much like the “coming of age” stories in movies and novels.
Ah - I like that you made the connection to that Stafford poem. I haven't seen that one in a few years - always liked it.
ReplyDeleteNice post; you identify and explore some crucial themes.
I have bookshelves at home full of things that I should just get rid of, but I don't.
ReplyDeleteIt really is awful how much stuff we accumulate over time.
I like this:
"His final realization that he should stop running from things makes his journey much like the 'coming of age' stories in movies and novels."
I would probably watch a movie like that, as weird as it would be. Hahah.