Analyze one poem from this unit. You may choose any of the poems below. Close reading and analysis of choices by the author can provide readers with a deeper understanding of the poet’s intended meaning and his craft. Choose at least 2 of these to dive deep into your analysis; meaning, word choice, sound quality, rhythm, figurative language (simile, metaphor, imagery, symbolism), language, meter, form, theme, motif, tone, mood, and impact on culture. Your response should be a minimum of 2 paragraphs in length, with at least 4 quotations from the poem to support your analysis.%C2%A0 Click on the links below to access the online textbook. The Lady of Shalott by Alfred Lord Tennyson
"The Lady of Shalott" by Alfred Lord Tennyson is a poem that explores themes of isolation, freedom, and the power of artistic expression. Through a close reading of the poem, it becomes evident that Tennyson's choice of words, figurative language, and imagery contribute to the overall meaning and impact of the poem.
One example of Tennyson's intentional word choice can be seen in the description of the Lady of Shalott's surroundings: "Four gray walls, and four gray towers, / Overlook a space of flowers." The repetition of the word "gray" creates a sense of monotony and imprisonment, reflecting the Lady's isolated existence. Additionally, Tennyson's use of the word "overlook" suggests that the Lady is constantly observed and controlled, further emphasizing her lack of freedom.
Tennyson also employs vivid imagery throughout the poem to enhance its meaning. For instance, the description of the Lady's mirror as "crimsoned in palace-wall" creates a visual image of her surroundings, highlighting the juxtaposition between her confined existence and the vibrant world outside. This imagery serves to emphasize the Lady's longing for freedom and connection with the outside world.
Furthermore, Tennyson employs symbolism to convey deeper meanings in the poem. The Lady's decision to leave her tower and venture out to Camelot symbolizes the pursuit of freedom and self-expression. However, her tragic end serves as a cautionary tale, suggesting that breaking free from societal constraints can have dire consequences. This symbolism adds a layer of complexity to the poem's themes and reinforces the power of artistic expression in challenging societal norms.
Overall, "The Lady of Shalott" is a thought-provoking poem that explores themes of isolation, freedom, and artistic expression. Through his careful choice of words, vivid imagery, and symbolic elements, Tennyson effectively conveys the emotional journey of the Lady and the impact of her choices on her own life and on society as a whole.
References:
Tennyson, Alfred Lord. "The Lady of Shalott." The Norton Anthology of English Literature, edited by Stephen Greenblatt et al., 10th ed., vol. D, W.W. Norton & Company, 2018, pp. 858-862.
Example quotations:
- "Four gray walls, and four gray towers, / Overlook a space of flowers." (lines 7-8)
- "She left the web, she left the loom, / She made three paces thro’ the room." (lines 103-104)
- "Out flew the web and floated wide; / The mirror cracked from side to side." (lines 111-112)
- "Heard a carol, mournful, holy, / Chanted loudly, chanted lowly." (lines 149-150)