Which poet wrote a poem featuring the name of the demon "Moloch"?

Enhance your poetry comprehension with the NAQT Poetry Test. Solidify concepts with dynamic questions, hints, and explanations. Prepare for excellence!

The correct answer is Allen Ginsberg, who mentions the demon "Moloch" in his famous poem "Howl." In this poem, Ginsberg uses Moloch as a symbol representing the destructive forces of modern society, particularly those associated with capitalism, war, and conformity. Moloch, originally a deity associated with child sacrifice in ancient Near Eastern cultures, effectively embodies the oppression and monstrosity of societal structures that devour creativity and humanity.

Ginsberg's vivid and passionate portrayal of Moloch reflects his critique of 20th-century American culture and resonates with the themes of despair and longing for spiritual escape that permeate "Howl." This use of a mythological figure in a contemporary context highlights Ginsberg's innovative approach to poetry, merging the ancient with the modern to deepen the emotional impact of his work.

The other poets listed, while significant in their own rights, do not incorporate Moloch in their poetry as Ginsberg does, which is why his work is uniquely identified with this figure.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy