Correspondence Versus Connection: Raymond de Borja Reflects on Language, Poetry, and Friendship

Raymond de Borja, a contemporary poet and scholar, has long been fascinated by the interplay between language, poetry, and friendship. His work often explores the nuanced differences between "correspondence" and "connection," drawing inspiration from the writings of Jack Spicer and Federico Garcia Lorca. In a recent reflection, de Borja delved into these themes, highlighting the significance of Spicer's assertion that "things do not connect; they correspond."

This idea of correspondence, as opposed to connection, is central to de Borja's creative process. He prefers to see relationships between things as independent, rather than interdependent. This preference manifests in his collage work, where he carefully arranges disparate elements to create a new, cohesive whole. Each piece is a testament to the power of correspondence, as de Borja draws connections between seemingly unrelated objects or ideas.

Moreover, de Borja extends this concept to the realm of human interaction. He views correspondence as a dynamic between people engaged in various conversations. This idea is particularly evident in his exploration of After Lorca, a work that humorously and estrangely channels the voice of the deceased Lorca through Spicer's letters. In the preface to the book, Spicer's Lorca expresses a fundamentally unsympathetic reaction to the manuscript, viewing it as a waste of talent. Despite this, the younger generation of poets may find value in Spicer's execution of a seemingly difficult task.

The epigraph "Things do not connect; they correspond" is taken from a letter Spicer wrote to Lorca. In this letter, Spicer elaborates on the concept, explaining that correspondence allows a poet to translate real objects across language and time. The tree Lorca saw in Spain becomes a tree Spicer could never have seen in California, yet both poets can connect with it through their shared language and imagination.

De Borja's work is deeply influenced by these ideas, as he navigates the complexities of language and friendship. His poetry often serves as a bridge between different voices and perspectives, illustrating the power of correspondence in fostering understanding and connection. Through his art and scholarship, de Borja continues to explore the intricate dance between words, people, and ideas, leaving a lasting impact on those who encounter his work.