"Wrong Norma" - Summary

True to its title, "Wrong Norma" revels in its lack of traditional structure or thematic unity. The poems are presented as disparate fragments, mirroring the fragmented nature of memory, perception, and perhaps even reality itself. This deliberate disjointedness invites readers to find their own connections and interpretations, embracing the ambiguity and open-endedness of Carson's work.

Carson's signature style, marked by its precision, wit, and surprising juxtapositions, takes center stage in "Wrong Norma." The poems are infused with a deep awareness of the power and limitations of language. Through her unique use of etymology, wordplay, and unconventional syntax, Carson compels readers to confront the ways in which language shapes, defines, and sometimes even betrays our understanding of the world.

While the subjects of the poems in "Wrong Norma" may seem diverse and disconnected, they are ultimately united by Carson's singular voice and her probing exploration of human experience. Whether contemplating the works of literary masters or reflecting on personal memories, Carson's writing invites readers to find resonance and meaning within the seemingly ordinary and the profoundly philosophical.