In 1938, Wallace Carothers and DuPont commercialized nylon, the first synthetic polymer fiber, following Carothers' development of polyamides. This innovation revolutionized textiles, leading to the production of durable and versatile materials for various applications. Nylon's introduction marked a significant advancement in material science, influencing fashion, industry, and consumer goods.

Wallace Carothers and DuPont's commercialization of nylon in 1938 became emblematic of synthetic modernity, critiqued or celebrated in post-war consumer culture poetry. Poets like Elizabeth Bishop explored the complexities of identity and materialism in this new era.