In "Power Politics," Margaret Atwood explores themes of absence and connection through the imagery of a relationship characterized by distance. The speaker reflects on the elusive presence of a partner, who, although always present in thought, is often difficult to recognize physically. This ambiguity leads to a sense of forgetfulness about their true appearance, suggesting a disconnect between memory and reality.

The poem illustrates how intimate moments can be tainted by this ambiguity. The speaker perceives their partner's presence as fluid and transformative, which blurs any clear understanding of their identity. This constant change results in a profound realization that complete understanding is unattainable, emphasizing the complexities of human relationships and the inherent boundaries in knowing another person deeply.