Part II - Understanding poems oftentimes involves interpretation. Huswifery was not a poem about a spinning wheel but was, instead, a poem about a closer connection to God. Develop an argument for the following interpretations of ‘The Tide Rises, the Tide Falls’.
Interpretation #1 - The poem is meant to show that, while humans have the power to choose starting and stopping, nature does not.
Interpretation #2 - The poem is meant to show that nature doesn’t stop to acknowledge the loss of human life.
Interpretation #3 - The poem is meant to show that humans should ignore nature.
Interpretation #1 - In "The Tide Rises, The Tide Falls," the poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow intends to convey the theme that while humans have the power to determine their own existence and make choices about when to engage or withdraw from various activities, the cycles of nature remain indifferent and unstoppable.
Longfellow captures the essence of this idea through the repetition of the rising and falling tide. The tide represents the relentless and cyclical nature of life, highlighting the contrast between the continuity of nature and the ephemeral existence of humans. The poem starts with the depiction of travelers arriving at the shore with optimism and energy, symbolizing the beginning of a new day or of a journey. However, as the poem progresses, it becomes evident that the travelers do not return, indicating their mortality. Yet the repetition of the tide rising and falling continues unaffected, symbolizing the never-ending flow of nature.
Through this interpretation, Longfellow suggests that despite human agency and the ability to control their actions, they are mere participants in the larger natural world. Ultimately, nature does not adhere to the human desire for permanence or control. This interpretation calls attention to the fragility and fleeting nature of human existence, emphasizing the insignificance of individual lives when compared to the enduring cycles of nature.
Interpretation #2 - In "The Tide Rises, The Tide Falls," Longfellow presents the idea that nature, symbolized by the rising and falling tide, simply carries on regardless of the loss of human life.
The poem illustrates the indifference of nature toward human mortality through its emphasis on the relentless continuation of the tide. The rising tide symbolizes the birth or arrival of humans, while the falling tide represents death or departure. The poem suggests that despite the human passing, nature remains unbothered and unaffected by such losses. The repeated action of the tide serves as a powerful symbol of nature's perpetual cycle, highlighting its resilience and indifference to human presence.
By presenting nature's indifference towards human mortality, Longfellow reminds readers of the transient nature of human life. This interpretation encourages individuals to recognize their impermanence in the face of nature's enduring power. It prompts reflection on the transitory nature of human existence and urges individuals to appreciate and make the most of their time in the world.
Interpretation #3 - "The Tide Rises, The Tide Falls" can be interpreted as a message urging humans to disregard nature and instead focus on their own endeavors.
Throughout the poem, nature is presented as an unchanging force, persisting despite the presence or absence of humans. The rhythmic repetition of the tide rising and falling emphasizes the stability and constancy of the natural world. This interpretation suggests that instead of getting lost in the indifference and overwhelming power of nature, humans should focus on their own actions and pursuits.
By highlighting the continuity of nature, Longfellow invites readers to consider the limited impact of their individual lives on the grand scale of the universe. The poem seems to suggest that while nature carries on regardless of human presence, humans should not be discouraged but rather focus on their own endeavors. This interpretation encourages individuals to embrace their agency and to strive for personal progress and achievement, detached from the whims and indifference of the natural world.
In conclusion, "The Tide Rises, The Tide Falls" can be interpreted in various ways. Interpretation #1 emphasizes the contrast between human choice and the uncontrollable nature of natural cycles. Interpretation #2 highlights nature's indifference to human life and mortality. Interpretation #3 suggests that humans should prioritize their own pursuits rather than being overwhelmed by the indifference of nature. These interpretations offer different perspectives on the poem and invite readers to explore the complex relationship between humans and nature.