Quarantine (poem)

Quarantine, as a poetic theme, refers to a form of imposed isolation, often due to disease or other perceived threats, explored through the medium of poetry. Poems centered on quarantine frequently examine themes of confinement, loneliness, fear, uncertainty, resilience, and the re-evaluation of values and relationships. The concept transcends literal physical separation, often serving as a metaphor for emotional, spiritual, or societal disconnection.

A "quarantine poem" can encompass a broad range of styles and perspectives. It might document the lived experience of isolation, grapple with the psychological impact of restricted movement, or explore the broader philosophical and societal implications of mandated separation. Poets may utilize imagery of enclosed spaces, restricted views, and altered routines to convey the feeling of being cut off from the world.

The genre experienced a notable surge during the COVID-19 pandemic, as poets worldwide responded to the widespread lockdowns and social distancing measures. These contemporary poems often reflected on the fragility of human connection, the inequalities exposed by the crisis, and the search for meaning in a dramatically altered reality. However, the theme of quarantine has a longer history in poetry, appearing in works that address historical epidemics, personal isolation, and metaphorical forms of detachment.