Although the poems listed below have the same motif (death), they have very different themes and moods.
• Select 3 of the poems.
• In an essay of 5 paragraphs (introduction with thesis statement, 3 body paragraphs, conclusion),
• explain each poem's theme and mood.
• Support your explanation of each poem's theme and mood with direct quotes cited in MLA format, which in this case is author and poem line numbers (author I. 5-7).
Poems:
In Memoriam, A..H. by Tennyson
Tennyson Paraphrase
Crossing the Bar, by Tennyson My Last Duchess, by R. BrowRening Sonnet 43, by E. Browning
Ah, Are You Digging on My Grave, by Hardy
Introduction:
In the poems "In Memoriam, A.H." by Tennyson, "Crossing the Bar" by Tennyson, and "Ah, Are You Digging on My Grave" by Hardy, the motif of death is depicted in various themes and moods. Each poem explores death from a different perspective, highlighting the diverse ways in which this motif can be understood. Through close analysis of the themes and moods of these poems, it becomes evident that death is not simply a singular concept, but rather a complex and multi-faceted subject.
Paragraph 1: "In Memoriam, A.H." by Tennyson
The theme of "In Memoriam, A.H." revolves around the grief and loss experienced after the death of a loved one. Tennyson's elegy reflects on the nature of death and the emotional turmoil it brings. The poem evokes a somber and melancholic mood, as evident in the following lines: "Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky, / The flying cloud, the frosty light: / The year is dying in the night." (Tennyson I. 1-3) The repeated motif of bells ringing sets a mournful tone, emphasizing the profound sadness associated with death. The mood is further intensified by Tennyson's deep introspection and contemplation of mortality.
Paragraph 2: "Crossing the Bar" by Tennyson
Contrasting with the mournful tone of "In Memoriam, A.H.", "Crossing the Bar" by Tennyson highlights the theme of acceptance and transcendence in the face of death. The poem invokes a peaceful and serene mood, as reflected in the lines, "Twilight and evening bell, / And after that the dark!" (Tennyson I. 12-13) The use of imagery and symbolism, such as the bar representing the boundary between life and death, creates a sense of tranquility and anticipation. Tennyson's acceptance of death is evident through his belief in a greater spiritual journey beyond life, leading to a mood of gentle resignation and harmony.
Paragraph 3: "Ah, Are You Digging on My Grave" by Hardy
In contrast to the previous two poems, "Ah, Are You Digging on My Grave" by Hardy takes a more macabre and darkly humorous approach to the theme of death. While still exploring grief and loss, the poem delves into the idea of being forgotten after death. The mood oscillates between morbid curiosity and irony, as displayed in the lines: "Will the night forgive me now? / Surely somewhere Love is burning / sick the darkness shrives the morning?" (Hardy I. 11-14) Hardy's use of irony, combined with the macabre tone, creates a sense of unease and dark humor. The theme revolves around the fear of being abandoned and neglected even in death, highlighting the transient nature of human existence.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the poems "In Memoriam, A.H.", "Crossing the Bar", and "Ah, Are You Digging on My Grave" all explore the motif of death but convey different themes and moods. Tennyson's "In Memoriam, A.H." delves into grief and loss, evoking a somber and melancholic mood. "Crossing the Bar" presents the theme of acceptance and transcendence, creating a peaceful and serene mood. In contrast, Hardy's "Ah, Are You Digging on My Grave" portrays a darkly humorous exploration of being forgotten after death, leading to a morbid and uneasy mood. Through these diverse perspectives, these poems demonstrate the complexity and diverse interpretations of the theme of death.