What does "in the world of possessions" mean?
The phrase "in the world of possessions" refers to a materialistic world where people are constantly engaged in acquiring, owning, and losing things. It highlights the reality that we live in a society where material objects hold significant value.
In this world, possessions are temporary, as indicated by the lines, "People will take / Balls, balls will be lost always." The boy learns that everything one owns can be lost, and money is external, meaning it cannot truly replace the emotional value or memories attached to a lost item. Thus, it signifies the harsh reality of a life driven by material wealth, where loss is inevitable.
Explanation
The phrase 'in the world of possessions' from John Berryman's poem highlights the materialistic nature of human society, where people value acquiring and owning things. The textbook context emphasizes that in this world, things are constantly taken or lost ('Balls, balls will be lost always'), and money is merely 'external' or superficial. The boy's realization of his 'first responsibility' in such a world means understanding that one must learn to cope with the inevitable loss of material things without relying on external replacements.