Two Headed Calf Poem

Laura Gilpin’s poem “Two-Headed Calf” is a poignant, powerful piece that delves into themes of beauty, impermanence, and the shared experience of existence. Through the lens of a two-headed calf, Gilpin explores profound philosophical questions about life, drawing readers into a brief yet intense reflection on the nature of being and the connections that bind us all.

Two Headed Calf Poem

Tomorrow when the farm boys find this
freak of nature, they will wrap his body
in newspaper and carry him to the museum.

But tonight he is alive and in the north
field with his mother. It is a perfect
summer evening: the moon rising over
the orchard, the wind in the grass. And
as he stares into the sky, there are
twice as many stars as usual.

“Two-Headed Calf” is a short poem that manages to encapsulate a vast emotional and philosophical landscape. Gilpin introduces us to a calf born with two heads, an anomaly of nature, destined for a brief existence. Yet, within this fleeting life, there is a moment of profound beauty and unity—a night under the stars where the calf can see twice as much of the sky’s beauty.

Literary Analysis

Gilpin’s use of clear, simple language belies the depth of the existential themes she explores. The imagery of the calf under the stars invites readers to ponder the universe’s vastness and our small place within it. The poet’s choice of a “freak of nature” as the protagonist challenges societal norms about beauty and worth, suggesting a broader acceptance and understanding of differences.

The structure of the poem is straightforward yet effective, with a narrative that builds a vivid scene before delivering its emotional and philosophical weight. The contrast between the expected morbid fate of the calf and its serene, almost magical experience under the stars creates a poignant juxtaposition that enhances the theme of finding beauty in fleeting moments.

Themes Explored

Beauty in Impermanence

One of the central themes of “Two-Headed Calf” is the beauty found in transient, impermanent things. The calf’s life, though brief and marred by physical abnormalities, is marked by a moment of sublime beauty as it gazes at the stars. This moment serves as a metaphor for human life, emphasizing the importance of finding beauty in every existence, no matter how fleeting or troubled.

Unity and Shared Experience

The calf’s ability to see “twice as many stars” symbolizes a deeper connection to the universe. This imagery suggests a shared cosmic experience, reflecting on how all living beings, regardless of their form or the duration of their life, are part of a larger, interconnected existence. The poem subtly hints at a unity that transcends physical differences, highlighting an inclusive view of life and consciousness.

Reflection on Life’s Purpose

Gilpin prompts readers to reflect on the purpose of life and the value of each moment. The poem’s focus on one night in the life of the two-headed calf invites contemplation of our own lives—how we are perceived by others, how we perceive the world, and what moments of beauty we cherish. The inevitability of the calf’s fate juxtaposed with its peaceful night under the stars encourages a deeper appreciation for the present.

Final Thoughts

Laura Gilpin’s “Two-Headed Calf” is more than just a poem about an animal oddity—it is a profound meditation on life, beauty, and our place in the universe. It teaches us to look beyond the surface, to find beauty in the fleeting moments, and to recognize our shared experiences as part of a larger whole. The poem remains a testament to the power of poetry to transcend the ordinary, offering a lens through which we can see the world anew, illuminated by the stars above and shared with all beings, regardless of how different they may appear. Through its simplicity and depth, “Two-Headed Calf” continues to inspire and move readers, holding a cherished place in contemporary poetry for its universal and enduring messages.