Compare the poems by Szymborska and Milosz read over the course of his unit. All are important twentieth century writers addressing a similar theme: death. Which poet addresses it in terms of the times he lived in (and its a threat of fascism), and which addresses it in a more personal way? Characterize each poet's treatment of this theme, citing evidence from the poems.
Both Wislawa Szymborska and Czeslaw Milosz are important twentieth-century poets who have addressed the theme of death. While both poets explore this theme, they approach it from different perspectives. Szymborska addresses death in a more personal way, focusing on individual experiences and the existential questions it raises. On the other hand, Milosz addresses death in terms of the times he lived in, particularly the threat of fascism and its consequences.
Szymborska's treatment of death is characterized by introspection and contemplation. In her poem "Cat in an Empty Apartment," she captures the aftermath of loss and the presence of absence. The poem portrays a cat left behind by its deceased owner and explores themes of grief and the void left in the absence of a loved one. Szymborska's personal exploration of death reflects her interest in the individual's experiences and emotions surrounding mortality.
Similarly, in her poem "In Praise of Self-Deprecation," Szymborska addresses death from a personal perspective. She contemplates the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death, urging readers to accept their mortality with humility. This poem highlights Szymborska's focus on individual perspectives and the existential questions raised by death.
Contrastingly, Milosz's treatment of death is deeply influenced by the times he lived in, particularly the threat and consequences of fascism. In his poem "A Song on the End of the World," he incorporates the theme of death as a result of war and human devastation. The poem juxtaposes images of destruction, violence, and death with the resilience of nature. Here, Milosz emphasizes the collective impact of death, linking it to the larger context of historical events and human atrocities.
Moreover, in Milosz's poem "Incantation," the poet conveys the horrors of war and expresses his fear of the fascist era. He uses imagery associated with death and destruction, emphasizing the devastating consequences of political ideologies. Milosz's treatment of death reflects a broader concern for the state of the world and the threat fascism posed to humanity.
In conclusion, Szymborska addresses death in a more personal and introspective way, focusing on individual experiences and existential questions. Milosz, on the other hand, incorporates the theme of death within the context of the times he lived in, particularly the threat of fascism and the consequences it brought. Both poets provide unique perspectives on death, showcasing its impact on the personal and historical levels respectively.