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Critical Appreciation of “The Hollow Men” by T.S. Eliot

Written by A H M Ohidujjaman in Modernist Poetry Last Updated April 25, 2024
The Hollow Men

T.S. Eliot, a prominent figure in modernist poetry, played a pivotal role in reshaping the literary landscape during the early 20th century. As a poet, essayist, and critic, Eliot’s works explore the complexities of the human experience in the wake of societal upheaval. His exploration of fragmented identities and the disillusionment of the post-World War I era resonates profoundly in the realm of English literature.

“The Hollow Men” stands as a testament to Eliot’s thematic depth and poetic innovation. Within the scope of Eliot’s extensive body of work, this poem holds a unique position for its stark portrayal of spiritual desolation in a world grappling with the aftermath of global conflict. It serves as a haunting reflection on the state of humanity, capturing the pervasive emptiness that pervades the collective consciousness.

As we explore “The Hollow Men,” we encounter themes resonant in Eliot’s other works like “The Waste Land” and “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock.” Eliot’s exploration of fragmented human consciousness and societal disillusionment echoes across these poems. Through our analysis, we aim to uncover the interconnectedness of Eliot’s themes, illuminating his enduring exploration of existential crisis.

As an attempt to write a critical appreciation, we’ll focus on elucidating the intricate layers of “The Hollow Men” to discern Eliot’s commentary on the hollowness of the human soul amidst the ruins of a fractured society. We will navigate the poetic landscape to unearth the symbolism, themes, and stylistic choices that make this poem a poignant exploration of existential crisis.

Summary of “The Hollow Men”

“The Hollow Men” unfolds as a somber reflection on the desolation that permeates the post-war world. Eliot crafts a vivid image of a barren landscape, symbolizing a society marked by spiritual decay. The poem begins with the iconic lines:

“We are the hollow men
We are the stuffed men
Leaning together
Headpiece filled with straw.”

This opening sets the tone for the pervasive emptiness that characterizes the hollow men — individuals devoid of substance, grappling with an existential void. The repetition of the word “hollow” underscores the profound sense of emptiness and lack of fulfillment.

Eliot employs a fragmented structure, mirroring the fractured state of the world he portrays. Phrases such as “Shape without form, shade without colour” reinforce the disintegration of meaning and identity. The repetition of the refrain “This is the way the world ends, not with a bang but a whimper” echoes throughout the poem, encapsulating a sense of resignation and inevitability in the face of societal collapse.

The poem’s vivid imagery paints a surreal picture of a liminal space — a twilight realm where the hollow men exist in a perpetual state of unfulfilled yearning. Eliot’s use of evocative language, such as “death’s other Kingdom,” contributes to the poem’s dreamlike and unsettling atmosphere, inviting readers to contemplate the haunting reality of an existence stripped of purpose.

In summary, “The Hollow Men” serves as a powerful commentary on the vacuity of post-war society, employing stark imagery and a fragmented structure to convey the profound hollowness that defines the human condition in this tumultuous era. The poem beckons readers to delve into the depths of its verses, where every word is a brushstroke on the canvas of existential angst painted by T.S. Eliot.

Poetic Devices and Style of “The Hollow Men”

T.S. Eliot’s distinctive poetic style in “The Hollow Men” is marked by a rich array of literary devices that enhance the thematic depth of the poem. His choice of language, tone, and mood creates a haunting atmosphere that resonates with readers.

The poem’s fragmented structure reflects the shattered reality of the post-war world. Eliot employs enjambment and disjointed lines to convey a sense of disintegration, mirroring the fractured identities of the hollow men. For instance, in the lines:

“Between the idea
And the reality
Between the motion
And the act”

Eliot introduces a gap between concepts, emphasizing the profound disconnect between thought and action, a central theme in the poem.

Repetition plays a crucial role in reinforcing the poem’s themes. The repeated use of the word “hollow” not only emphasizes the spiritual emptiness of the characters but also creates a rhythmic pattern that echoes throughout the verses. This rhythmic repetition intensifies the impact of Eliot’s message, underscoring the pervasive hollowness in the post-war society he portrays.

Eliot’s use of paradoxes and contradictions adds layers of complexity to the poem. Phrases such as “Shape without form, shade without color” and “Those who have crossed/ With direct eyes, to death’s other Kingdom” create a sense of ambiguity and challenge conventional notions, inviting readers to grapple with the paradoxical nature of the hollow men’s existence.

Furthermore, the poem is characterized by intertextuality and allusions to other literary and cultural works. The reference to the Guy Fawkes rhyme — “Remember us — if at all — not as lost
Violent souls, but only
As the hollow men” — adds depth to the poem, inviting readers to explore the layers of meaning embedded in historical and cultural references.

In essence, Eliot’s poetic devices and style in “The Hollow Men” contribute to the overall impact of the poem, inviting readers to engage with its complex layers and unravel the intricate threads of meaning woven throughout the verses.

Themes and Meanings of “The Hollow Men”

“The Hollow Men” delves into profound themes that encapsulate the essence of T.S. Eliot’s poetic vision, offering a poignant commentary on the human condition in the aftermath of World War I.

One overarching theme is the exploration of spiritual emptiness. The hollow men, portrayed as mere shells devoid of substance, epitomize a society grappling with a profound sense of meaninglessness. Eliot captures this emptiness in lines like:

“Shape without form, shade without colour,
Paralysed force, gesture without motion.”

Here, the poet employs vivid imagery to illustrate the hollowness that defines the existence of these individuals, emphasizing the void where form and substance should reside.

Existential crisis is another central theme, manifested in the disconnection between idea and reality, motion and action. The lines:

“Between the idea
And the reality
Between the motion
And the act”

Highlight the profound existential dilemma faced by the hollow men, caught in a perpetual limbo between thought and action, unable to bridge the gap.

Eliot also explores the consequences of a fragmented and disintegrated society. The recurring refrain — “This is the way the world ends, not with a bang but a whimper” — echoes the resignation and inevitability of societal collapse. It emphasizes the quiet, unnoticed descent into oblivion, contrasting with the cataclysmic events of the war.

The exploration of a post-apocalyptic world adds depth to the poem’s themes. Eliot paints a haunting picture of a desolate landscape where the hollow men linger on the border of death’s kingdom. The imagery of “This is the dead land, this is cactus land” evokes a sense of barrenness and decay, reflecting the aftermath of widespread destruction.

In essence, “The Hollow Men” invites readers to confront the profound themes of emptiness, existential crisis, societal disintegration, and the quiet demise of a world haunted by the shadows of war. Eliot’s exploration of these themes resonates with the broader context of the post-war era, offering a poignant reflection on the fractured state of humanity.

Sound and Rhythm in “The Hollow Men”

T.S. Eliot’s meticulous attention to sound and rhythm in “The Hollow Men” enhances the overall impact of the poem, creating an auditory experience that mirrors the dissonance and emptiness depicted in its verses.

Repetition, a hallmark of Eliot’s style, contributes significantly to the poem’s rhythmic quality. The recurrence of the word “hollow” not only emphasizes the central theme but also establishes a rhythmic pattern that reverberates throughout the poem. This rhythmic repetition is evident in lines like:

“We are the hollow men
We are the stuffed men”

The deliberate use of anapestic meter, characterized by two short syllables followed by a longer one, creates a sense of momentum in the poem, propelling the reader forward. The rhythmic flow is disrupted by moments of intentional irregularity, mirroring the fractured nature of the hollow men’s world.

Eliot’s choice of words and the arrangement of sounds contribute to the poem’s auditory texture. Phrases such as “Shape without form, shade without colour” employ consonance and assonance, creating a melodic quality that heightens the emotional impact of the verses. This auditory richness serves to immerse readers in the haunting atmosphere of the poem.

The refrain, “This is the way the world ends, not with a bang but a whimper,” is a sonic anchor that punctuates the poem. Its repetition throughout the text serves as a haunting reminder, emphasizing the inevitability of the hollow men’s fate. The rhythmic consistency of this refrain contrasts sharply with the unpredictable and disjointed structure of the rest of the poem.

In summary, Eliot’s meticulous use of repetition, meter, and sound devices in “The Hollow Men” creates a rhythmic tapestry that enhances the thematic resonance of the poem. The intentional interplay of sound elements contributes to the immersive and evocative nature of the poem, inviting readers to engage not only with its meaning but also with its auditory nuances.

Imagery and Symbolism in “The Hollow Men”

T.S. Eliot’s “The Hollow Men” is a masterclass in vivid imagery and symbolic representation, using evocative language to paint a haunting picture of a world in spiritual decay.

The recurring motif of hollowness is portrayed through powerful imagery, such as “Headpiece filled with straw” and “Eyes I dare not meet in dreams.” These images capture the emptiness that defines the hollow men, emphasizing the absence of genuine substance or meaning in their existence. The use of straw as a filler evokes a sense of fragility, accentuating the precarious nature of their identity.

Eliot employs contrasting images to convey the paradoxical nature of the hollow men’s condition. Phrases like “Shape without form, shade without colour” juxtapose elements that traditionally complement each other, highlighting the discordant and fragmented state of their reality. This vivid imagery contributes to the overall sense of disintegration and disconnection.

The poem’s exploration of death’s kingdom and the dead land is laden with symbolism. “This is the dead land, this is cactus land” paints a bleak picture of a barren and lifeless landscape, symbolizing the aftermath of destruction. The choice of a cactus, a hardy but often lifeless plant, reinforces the idea of a world devoid of vitality.

The use of the Guy Fawkes rhyme introduces cultural and historical symbolism. “Remember us — if at all — not as lost/ Violent souls, but only/ As the hollow men” connects the hollow men to the failed plot to blow up the English Parliament in 1605. This historical reference adds layers of meaning, suggesting that the hollow men are not remembered for their actions but for their spiritual emptiness.

Eliot’s symbolic use of “death’s other Kingdom” creates a mysterious and metaphysical dimension to the poem. It suggests a realm beyond life, where the hollow men linger in a state of perpetual liminality. This symbolism invites readers to contemplate the broader existential questions raised by the poem.

In essence, the vivid imagery and symbolism in “The Hollow Men” serve as a visual and conceptual framework, allowing readers to delve into the depths of Eliot’s commentary on the human condition. The carefully crafted images and symbols enrich the poem’s thematic complexity, providing a multi-dimensional experience for those who engage with its verses.

Characterization in “The Hollow Men”

While “The Hollow Men” is more reflective than narrative, T.S. Eliot subtly employs characterization to embody the broader themes and ideas woven throughout the poem.

The titular hollow men themselves serve as symbolic embodiments of a generation left spiritually bereft in the aftermath of war. Their emptiness is depicted through phrases like “stuffed men,” portraying them as mere shells filled with straw, lacking the substance of a meaningful existence. This characterization encapsulates the pervasive disillusionment experienced by many in the post-World War I era.

The poem introduces a subtle distinction between the hollow men and those who have “crossed with direct eyes, to death’s other Kingdom.” This differentiation implies a spectrum of spiritual states, suggesting that not all individuals in this desolate landscape share the same hollowness. The characterization of those who have crossed to death’s kingdom implies a journey or transition, offering a glimmer of hope or resolution amid the prevailing emptiness.

Eliot’s choice to allude to the Guy Fawkes rhyme also indirectly characterizes the hollow men. By referencing the failed plot to blow up Parliament, the poem implies a certain sense of historical guilt or culpability, further shaping our understanding of these hollow figures. This subtle historical characterization adds layers of complexity to their identity, suggesting a connection to a broader societal narrative.

While the poem doesn’t provide detailed individual character sketches, it uses these symbolic figures to convey a collective experience. The hollow men become representative of an entire generation grappling with the disillusionment and spiritual void of a world forever changed by war. This collective characterization invites readers to empathize with the broader human condition rather than focusing on individual personas.

In essence, the characterization in “The Hollow Men” serves as a vehicle through which Eliot explores and conveys the complex emotional and existential states of a generation haunted by the aftermath of war. The hollow men, with their symbolic resonance, become vessels through which readers can contemplate the broader societal and existential questions posed by the poem.

Cultural and Historical Context of “The Hollow Men”

To fully grasp the nuances of “The Hollow Men,” it’s essential to consider the cultural and historical context in which T.S. Eliot penned this haunting reflection on the human condition.

The poem emerged in the aftermath of World War I, a cataclysmic event that reshaped the geopolitical landscape and left an indelible mark on the collective psyche. Eliot, deeply affected by the war and its consequences, channels this collective trauma into his work. Lines like “This is the way the world ends, not with a bang but a whimper” encapsulate the prevailing sentiment of disillusionment and despair that permeated the post-war era.

The reference to the Guy Fawkes rhyme adds a layer of historical and cultural depth. Guy Fawkes, part of the failed Gunpowder Plot in 1605, becomes a symbolic figure of rebellion and the consequences of failed revolutionary action. By invoking this historical episode, Eliot invites readers to reflect on the cyclical nature of societal upheaval and the potential futility of attempts to bring about meaningful change.

Eliot’s choice of language and imagery is also influenced by the broader cultural milieu of modernism. The fragmented structure, the use of allusions, and the exploration of existential themes align with the characteristics of modernist literature. “The Hollow Men” can be seen as a response to the fragmentation and disillusionment that characterized the modernist literary movement in the early 20th century.

Moreover, the poem reflects Eliot’s interest in spiritual and philosophical inquiries, particularly his engagement with various religious traditions. The hollow men’s existence on the border of “death’s other Kingdom” hints at spiritual liminality, inviting readers to consider the broader metaphysical questions embedded in the poem.

In essence, “The Hollow Men” serves as both a reflection and a critique of the cultural and historical moment in which it was written. Eliot’s engagement with the aftermath of war, historical allusions, and the broader themes of modernism enrich the poem’s significance, providing readers with a lens through which to view the complexities of the human experience in a specific time and cultural milieu.

Comparison of “The Hollow Men” and Other Works

To deepen our understanding of “The Hollow Men,” it is valuable to draw comparisons with other works by T.S. Eliot and to situate the poem within the broader context of modernist literature.

In Eliot’s body of work, “The Hollow Men” stands out for its stark portrayal of spiritual emptiness and societal disillusionment. When compared to Eliot’s earlier masterpiece, “The Waste Land,” one observes a thematic continuity. Both poems explore the fractured state of post-war society, employing vivid imagery and allusions to convey a sense of spiritual desolation. While “The Waste Land” captures a broader panorama of cultural decay, “The Hollow Men” narrows its focus to the individual and the haunting emptiness within.

Furthermore, the poem can be analyzed in juxtaposition with Eliot’s exploration of religious and philosophical themes in works like “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” and “Ash-Wednesday.” The hollow men’s existence on the border of “death’s other Kingdom” resonates with Eliot’s ongoing inquiry into the nature of spirituality and the quest for meaning in a fractured world.

In the broader context of modernist literature, “The Hollow Men” shares thematic elements with the works of other prominent writers of the time, such as F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” and Virginia Woolf’s “Mrs. Dalloway.” These works collectively reflect the disillusionment and existential questioning that permeated the post-World War I era.

Moreover, Eliot’s contemporaries in the modernist movement, including Ezra Pound and James Joyce, also grappled with similar themes of societal breakdown and spiritual crisis. Comparing “The Hollow Men” with their works provides insights into the shared concerns and varied approaches within the modernist literary landscape.

In summary, examining “The Hollow Men” in relation to Eliot’s broader oeuvre and the works of his contemporaries enriches our understanding of the poem’s thematic depth and its place within the broader context of modernist literature. The comparative analysis allows readers to discern recurring motifs, distinctive styles, and shared concerns that characterize the artistic responses to the tumultuous period in which these works were created.

Conclusion

In concluding our critical appreciation of T.S. Eliot’s “The Hollow Men,” we revisit the thematic intricacies, stylistic nuances, and cultural resonances that make this poem a poignant exploration of the human condition in the aftermath of war.

Eliot’s masterful use of vivid imagery, such as “Shape without form, shade without colour,” encapsulates the emptiness that defines the hollow men. This visual representation, combined with the rhythmic repetition of “hollow,” creates a haunting atmosphere that reverberates throughout the verses. The fragmented structure mirrors the fractured reality of the post-war world, where individuals exist in a state of perpetual disconnection.

The exploration of existential themes, including the disintegration between idea and reality, adds depth to our understanding of the hollow men’s spiritual crisis. The refrain, “This is the way the world ends, not with a bang but a whimper,” serves as a chilling reminder of the quiet demise that pervades the poem, contrasting sharply with the cataclysmic events of the war that shaped the cultural and historical backdrop.

Considering the cultural and historical context further illuminates the poem’s significance. Eliot’s engagement with the aftermath of World War I, the historical allusions to the Guy Fawkes rhyme, and the broader themes of modernism collectively position “The Hollow Men” as a reflective response to a world irrevocably changed by conflict and societal upheaval.

Drawing comparisons with Eliot’s other works and placing the poem within the broader context of modernist literature enriches our interpretation. “The Hollow Men” emerges as a thematic companion to Eliot’s exploration of spiritual and societal breakdown in “The Waste Land” and a continuation of his inquiry into existential questions in “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock.”

In essence, “The Hollow Men” invites readers to contemplate the complexities of the human experience — the emptiness that lingers in the aftermath of profound societal shifts, the existential questions that echo through time, and the timeless quest for meaning in a world marked by spiritual hollowness. As we navigate the rich tapestry of Eliot’s language and ideas, we are prompted to reflect not only on the historical moment that inspired the poem but also on the enduring relevance of its themes to the human condition.

Critical Appreciation of “To His Coy Mistress” by Andrew Marvell

Written by A H M Ohidujjaman in Metaphysical Poetry Last Updated April 25, 2024

To His Coy Mistress is the masterpiece of love poetry ever written by one of the most famous metaphysical poets, Andrew Marvell. He has not written many love poems; this particular poem is enough to mark him as a great poet of love. If you’re interested in exploring the treatment of love in Andrew Marvell’s poems more broadly, I highly recommend reading our article on the treatment of love in Andrew Marvell’s love poetry.

In this post, I will help you better understand the poem by critically looking at it from multiple perspectives. Here, I will give you several strong reasons why Andrew Marvell should be your favorite too. 

The epigrammatic style, the idea of carpe diem, metaphysical conceit, and the syllogistic structure of the poem To His Coy Mistress by Andrew Marvel have made it a masterpiece in English metaphysical poetry. Anybody who loves to read poetry and talk about it, especially the metaphysical ones, must NOT miss To His Coy Mistress.

The Poem Represents An Epigrammatic Style 

In the poem, “To His Coy Mistress,” the Petrarchan hyperbole and Elizabethan conceits combine with a metaphysical condemnation of style, almost epigrammatic. 

Marvell has shown his skills in the use of words. The style of the poem is mocked by the compression of ideas and the economy of words. Each line carries profound meaning.

The poet has compressed the idea of swift time passing admirably into a few words. An example of the epigrammatic manner of writing is as follows:

“Thy beauty shall no more be found; Nor, in thy marble vault, shall sound.”

To His Coy Mistress, Andrew Marvell

Carpe Diem: The Lover Wants to Have Physical Intimacy Right Now

In this love poem, the speaker offers a strong plea for the beloved to be soft towards him and relax her rigid attitude of stiff resistance to grant him sexual favors.

The poet who might be the lover himself put forward strong arguments that no sensible woman can reject. It is a “carpe diem” theme, a Latin phrase meaning “seize the opportunity.”

The whole sentence in Latin conveys a significant theme in this world of illusion. It calls upon man to enjoy the present day, trusting the least possible to the future.

If Not NOW, Then NEVER

The lover reminds his beloved that time passes fast, and soon they have to face the desert of vast eternity. Otherwise, he would have taken a long time to soften her rigid refusal.

If they had enough time at their disposal, he would have started loving her ten years before the great flood while she could refuse to satisfy his desire until the Day of Judgment. In the meantime, he could spend hundreds of years praising her physical beauty.

Now she should yield to his request as her beauty will no longer be found on this earth. She will be in her marble tomb, and he would no longer be there to sing her love song.

There in the grave, worms will attack her long-preserved virginity. All her delicate sense of humor will then turn to dust, and all his desire to make love will then turn to ashes.

Finally, she will stay in the grave, but nobody can enjoy the pleasure of lovemaking, although it is a peaceful and private place. All their desires will end in nothingness.

Syllogistic Structure: Condition to Conclusion

Marvell has written the poem in a syllogism form. A syllogism means an argument developed in a strictly logical form and leading to a definite conclusion.

A syllogistic argument consists of these stages, and each stage begins with three words, “If,” “But,” and “Therefore.” In this poem, we find three marked sections. The first section begins with “If”:

“Had we but world enough, and time.”

To His Coy Mistress, Andrew Marvell

The first word of this sentence, “Had,” conveys the sense of “If,” and the sentence means, “If we had only enough space and time at our disposal.”

The second section of the poem begins with “But”:

“But at my back, I always hear.”

To His Coy Mistress, Andrew Marvell

And the third section begins with “Therefore”: 

“Now therefore, while the youthful hue.”

To His Coy Mistress, Andrew Marvell

The poem states a condition in the first section. Then in the second section, the reasons this condition is beyond fulfillment have been given. Finally, the arguments end in a conclusion. The poem concludes that the lovers should lose no time enjoying the pleasure of love. The conclusion that Marvell draws in the poem justifies the “carpe diem” theme that one should seize the opportunity when offered without losing the present.

Metaphysical Conceits & Wits Prevail in To His Coy Mistress

The poem abounds in several fine concrete pictures and metaphysical conceits. Marvell first gives us a fantastic picture. If the lovers had enough time and space at their disposal, they would be able to wander as far apart as the Indian Ganges and the English Humbler.

Next, the metaphysical wit is evident in the following lines. The lover would love his mistress from a time ten years before the Great Flood and would spend hundreds and thousands of years admiring and adoring the different parts of her body. The passing of time’s winged chariot hurrying and coming closer to overtake the lovers presents an image of a vehicle before our mind’s eyes.

Using a metaphor, the poet has turned an abstract idea of passing the time into a vivid picture. Another metaphysical conceit is visible in the picture of the woman lying in the grave where the worms will consume her prolonged preserved virginity. Thus the worms are shown to have the power of seducing a woman.

The poet speaks of rolling all their strength into one ball in the last lines. The poet enjoys their pleasures with rough strife through the iron gate of life, which is undoubtedly a fine example of metaphorical wit to enrich the poem.

Conclusion

It has already been mentioned that the poet builds an exemplary case in the poem. The entire poem represents a metaphysical wit, and a streak of irony runs through the poem. The lady’s coyness has been mocked as her lover proposes to spend thousands of years praising her physical beauty.

Some critics have charged Marvell with a lack of passion in his love poems. But here in this poem, passion is allowed to take its natural path; as a love poem, it is unique and that for sheer power, it shanks higher than anything Marvell ever wrote.

“To His Coy Mistress” has the strength and passion of Andrew Marvell without his obscurity and horrible taste and runs efficiently and harmoniously. This poem of Marvell is the masterpiece of metaphysical poetry in this genre, and it also shows a return to the anacreontic theme. It is repeated with a new intensity and comes from a heart intense and passionate, and the love which is demanded is silent and forceful.  

Let us look at the picture below so that you can easily remember the whole thing:

A Critical Appreciation of the Poem “London” by William Blake

Written by A H M Ohidujjaman in Romantic Poetry Last Updated April 25, 2024

London is a poem in which William Blake criticizes contemporary society, symbolizing oppression. The so-called liberty of which his countrymen are proud is nothing but “a chartered liberty.”

The natural and unrestrained growth of man is impossible. The poet has exemplified the evils of the then society by the chimney sweeper’s miserable life, helpless deaths of the soldiers, and the exploitation of the harlots.

Thus, the child chimney sweeper, the soldier, and the harlot are Blake’s types of the oppressed- characteristic victims of a system based not on brotherhood but fear.

Contemporary Poets Besides Blake to Condemn London’s Society

Blake is not the only poet to condemns the society of London. After him, Wordsworth speaks of the collapse of humanity in London, and so he urges Milton to come back to redeem England from the deterioration it has undergone.

Even in the present century, T.S Eliot has compared the city with a wasteland in his famous poem, “The Waste Land.” In the poem “London,” Blake attacks the hollowness of society and the helplessness of the church.

The poem presents an accurate picture of the society of London. The river Thames flows quietly by the side of London, bearing witness to all the ugly and crushing scenes of London.

Blake Reveals Men’s Sinful Deeds in London

Blake finds in the cries of children and men the replica of men’s sinful deeds. The poet hears the cries of the chimney-sweepers, which appall the helpless church. The sight of the dying soldier whose blood drops down the palace walls is audible to the poet.

At midnight, the curses of the young harlots are heard in the streets. This unnatural life spoils the holy tie between the wife and husband in their marital life. It results from a marriage devoid of a lover, and so a man seeks a harlot to satisfy his passion.

Besides, the children born out of loveless marriage and adultery pose a significant problem.

Blake Lashes Church, Society, And Men in London

The target of the attack is the church, society, and men. In the Songs of Innocence, the poet’s attitude to society is mild.

Blake states a thing or a condition but does not hold anyone responsible. However, in London, we can find a progression in feelings and thoughts.

The boy, who was born into a dangerous society, now has to face the problems of existence. The poet notices woe and weariness in the faces of the Londoners instead of joy and pleasure.

Blake has given a picture of the society with sketches of three corrupt practices embodied in the chimney sweeper, the harlot, and the soldiers.

“Mind-Forg’d Manacles” Presents People’s Chained Condition in London

The phrase “mind-forg’d manacles” is essential to understand the poem’s theme. The people are in chains everywhere.

Every face in the city is melancholy because of his misery caused by man; all the so-called industrial progress has brought about misery for most of them.

To Conclude

In this poem, London criticizes society and the whole trend of contemporary society. It is a protest against the exploitation of the poor by the rich.

It is a short poem of four-lined stanzas but full of ideas within a short poem; Blake has put a universal problem, the solution of which lies in universal love for all.

A Critical Appreciation of The Poem “The Tyger” by William Blake

Written by A H M Ohidujjaman in Romantic Poetry Last Updated April 25, 2024

William Blake’s “The Tyger” is one of the greatest poetic creations in the genre of romantics. He was not only a poet but also a great painter. He portrayed his vision and understanding of the world and God’s creations in his literary works. His songs of innocence and experiences are milestones in romantic poetry.

The poem “The Tyger” is the masterpiece of William Blake’s poetry. It is a poem of six four-line stanzas. The poem illustrates Blake’s excellence in craftsmanship and descriptive skill. This poem is a fine specimen of Blake’s command over the production of musical notes. Each poem of Blake is described to be “a jewel casket beautiful in itself.” The poem “The Tyger” is a magnificent example of his lyricism. In each line, there is rhythm creating enchanting music.

Comparison Drawn between Tiger and Lamb

“The Tyger” contrasts the lamb of “Songs of Innocence.” The forceful eloquence of “The Tyger” is an antitype to the sweet hymn of the tender infantile sentiment of the lyric “The Lamb.” It is an ‘enraptured song’ conveying an essential vision of some themes, which Blake presents elsewhere in more detail.

The short and successive questions convey the wonder of the poet. Some of the questions require answers. They are left incomplete as if the poet’s awe and admiration were too great to allow him to complete them.

Symbols Used in the Poem

‘The Tyger’ is the symbol of the fierce forces of the soul. As the poet thinks, these forces are needed to break experience bonds. He says that the breath of the lion is the wisdom of God. In the poem, we can see the reference to the Tiger and the Lamb.

Both of these creatures are the two aspects of the same soul. The soul is none but God. The lamb represents the meekness, simplicity, and innocence of the soul, while the Tiger stands for the wrath and harsher side.

Is Jesus Christ the Creator of the Tiger?

In the person of Christ, these two aspects of the soul are found. The poem’s speaker believes that Christ does not have one face but several faces. The tiger seemingly symbolizes the ‘abundant life’ which Jesus Christ brought to life. So it stands for regeneration and energy.


The poet wonders how God can create such a terrible creature. He asks if the tiger has been created by the same hand that has created the lamb. So, he thinks that the tiger is not created in this world but somewhere in the skies or the ‘distant deeps.’ The poet wonders how the creator dared to fetch the fire for the tiger’s eyes.

The poet also wonders at the handiwork of God, who, like a blacksmith, sets to work on his incredible creation. The poet fails to understand why God has created such a fearful creation. The creation of such an animal must have required a prodigious apparatus.

Otherwise, the tiger’s heart muscles or the deadly terror of the tiger’s brain would not have been created. The anvil, the furnace, the chains, and the hammers must have all been wonderful. Even the stars, the first creations of God, were overtaken by grief and horror when they beheld the new creation.

In the poem, there is confusion as to the question of who has created the tiger. The creation process has been conveyed in words and phrases that, although meaningful in their totality, do not yield any clear elucidation of the creator.

Jesus Christ: The God and the Prophet

As in other poems, Jesus Christ has been conceived of being God and, at the same time, a prophet. Blake has not made it clear here. It may not be God but an unknown, supernatural spirit like Blake’s mythical heroes, who have fashioned the tiger.


Nevertheless, the crux of the poem has been put in the stanza when the stanza threw down their spears: “Did he who made the lamb make thee?” These lines appear to be very puzzling. We cannot conclude. It may be interpreted that wrath and mercy unite at the same point where the ultimate reality of God is felt.

Critical Appreciation of “Ode: Intimations of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” by William Wordsworth

Written by A H M Ohidujjaman in Romantic Poetry Last Updated April 25, 2024

“The whole poem represents the passage from youth to maturity— from feelings of self-pity to compassion of all mankind.”

Robert L. Cox, The Explicator, University Of South Carolina, Volume 19, Issue 6, March 1961.

William Wordsworth’s “Ode: Intimations of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” portrays his sheer intimacy with nature since his early childhood, which continues till adulthood and older age. The poet’s effort to recollect his childhood memory of nature assures us about the life before birth and also the unending journey after death, immortality.

We can analyze this poem of Wordsworth in terms of its structure, elements, inspiration, perception, and prose. Breaking down each of these points will enable us to grasp the poet’s message of true intimation of immortality.

What Does Each of The Eleven Stanzas of The Poem Represent?

Wordsworth began working on it at the height of his genius. He started on the poem in the spring of 1802 and apparently completed the first four stanzas by summer. The poet managed to finish this long poem in 206 lines, which requires a keen and patient study to understand its message.

However, delays in the composition have made no difference to its unity. All the same, there remains a necessity to realize each of the eleven stanzas of “Ode: Intimations of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood,” which we shall do in the following:

Stanza one of the poem deals with a nostalgic view of Wordsworth to his childhood memory. Here, the poet recounts his experience of nature as pure and vivid, just like a beautiful dream of an idealized childhood.

Stanza two reflects upon an adult mind of the poet where he finds the glorified aura of the sun, moon, and rose missing, although he acknowledges their indispensable presence in nature.

Stanza three stirs up Wordsworth’s downhearted feelings of nature’s loss of glory by an utterance, voice, or birdsong. It not only relieves the poet of his gloom but makes him realize that one should not grieve in the awakening month of May.

Stanza four persists with the poet’s emptiness for the essential loss in nature no matter how widely it is praised now. Although he is very much into birds, flowers, and babe, his nagging incompleteness never seizes to come around.

Stanza five does a leap of faith and deals with a different realization of the poet. Here, the poet perceives nature and human beings in a spiritual fashion rather than a soft and fresh childhood vision. The human soul is the core discussion of stanza five.

In stanza six, Wordsworth draws our attention to a broader perspective, which sees the earth as a mother and nurse of the soul. However, he expresses that this earth, being a material plane, eventually undermines the soul’s essence.

Stanza seven brings into our view a six-year-old child who grows up with the love and care of his family. The family shapes that little human’s mind through their nurture and helps him into adult life.

Stanza eight takes a deeper look into the child’s soul as it reveals and praises the prophetic qualities in him.

Stanza nine celebrates the poet’s life on earth as he accepts all the things it has to offer in life’s journey. Nonetheless, he also recognizes the coexisting worlds beyond understanding where the truth lies in deep silence.

Stanza ten shows that Wordsworth is even more optimistic about life, although the childhood essence in vision and experience of nature has declined. Nature is still on the movement, so there is no point in depression; instead, it is time to rejoice in strength.

Stanza eleven, which is the very last one of the poem, witnesses the wholehearted announcement of the poet, where he owes an emotional response to the beauty and depth of the living things in sight. To him, a mere flower can motivate him and bring his creative mind out of sadness.

The eleven stanzas of the poem can be summarized in three segments.

The first four stanzas begin with telling of his spiritual crisis of glory passing from the earth and end by asking why this has happened.

The middle stanzas examine the nature of this glory and explain it by a theory of reminiscence from a pre-natal existence.

Then the last stanzas show that life still has a meaning and value, though the vision has perished.
The poem’s three parts deal with a crisis; an explanation speaks of what is most important and most original in his poetry.

Wordsworth Used Metaphysical Doctrine and Reminiscences As An Inspiration

The poem seems to have been influenced by Pythagoras, Slate, and Vaughan. They believe in life before birth, which Pythagoras first mentioned in the West based on this poem. 

The poet’s doubts and questions about the reality of the world of senses have their origin in the Philosophy of Plato. The idealization of childhood may be traced back to Vaughan, who says in his poem, “The Retreat,” that the child sees divine glory in nature. 

This poem contains a metaphysical doctrine, i.e., the theory that our childhood memories inform us of life before birth and, therefore, of the soul’s immortality. We cannot verify the truth of the doctrine from our experiences. Thus the poem lacks that universal appeal that is necessary for its enjoyment by the average reader. 

Wordsworth himself does not assert the doctrine of reminiscences to be true. He looks at it as having “sufficient foundation in humanity” and therefore worthy of a poet’s use.

The Poem Depicts An Autobiography and Reminiscence of Wordsworth’s Childhood

Though defeasible on the ground of purity and innocence of childhood, the child’s idealization is not justifiable based on its spirituality or prophetic quality. To address the child as a mighty prophet, “Seer Blest” or “best philosopher” is too much. 

This poem is also autobiographical and reminiscent of the poet’s past life. The radiance and glory of nature which he declares, as seen in his childhood, was a part of his experience. He also felt the unreality of the external object to which he refers in the Ninth Stanza. We have his statement supporting this.

Wordsworth has vividly described the psychology of the child. The child is an imitator, an actor who copies and performs every action and gesture he observes:

“The little actor cons another part,

Feeling from time to time his human stage

With all the persons, down to palsied age,

That life brings with her in her equipage,

As if his whole vocation

Where and less imitation.”

“Ode: Intimation of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” by William Wordsworth

Wordsworth Poured His Love and Reflection of Nature in This Poem

The descriptions of nature are also beautiful. The poem reveals the difference between his love for nature as a child and his love for nature as a man. As a child, he had a passion and appetite for nature, but he has a love for nature as a man. 

He was meditative and reflective towards nature. Even the most ordinary objects of nature gave rise to profound thoughts in him. Having witnessed human suffering, he looked at nature thoughtfully- 

“The clouds that gather round the selling sun

Do take a sober colouring from an age.

That hath kept watch over man’s mortality.”

“To me the meanest flower that blows can give

Thoughts that do often lie too deep for tears.”

“Ode: Intimation of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” by William Wordsworth

Wordsworth expressed a moral in this poem. The poet refers to human sufferings that he has witnessed and his sympathy for his fellow human beings. 

The last stanza reveals the reflective mood of the poet. No one can remain untouched by the restful and soothing effect of the music at the close. Wordsworth’s fictional gift or image-making power is also noticeable in this poem. He gives vivid images of the rainbow, the rose, the moon shining in a cloudless sky, the star, light falling on water, the children collecting fresh flowers, and the baby jumping on his mother’s arms.

Wordsworth Applied Rhythmic and Effective Prose Style in This Poem

The poet has used such rhythmic and effective phrases in the “Ode: Intimation of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” like “The glory and the freshness of a dream,” “Shades of the prison-house,” “the height of common day,” “thoughts of deep for tears,” etc. 

As a matter of fact, the words used to express thoughts and emotions in this poem are very appropriate. The grandness of language befits the thematic grandness. Thus there is a perfect harmony between thought and expression, 

“words, thought, and music are woven into a perfect whole.”

“Ode: Intimation of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” by William Wordsworth

The Irregularity and Lyrical Elements by Wordsworth in This Poem

This poem is an irregular one. It is marked by a lack of uniformity in meter and the length of its stanza. It is not written in the same meter throughout, and that all of its stanzas do not consist of the same numbers of lines. It is written mainly in the iambic meter. Some lines, however, are in anapaestic and trochaic.

The lyrical element is also available in this poem. In the first four stanzas, the poet expresses his sense of loss. The last two stanzas, which possess a singing quality, refer to the compensations that make him happy and intensely emotional. 

Thus the Ode becomes a happy blending of thought and emotion, comprising doctrine, poetry, meditation, and melody. The author’s gift for lyrical and metaphysical verse become perfect and are for once united. Notice the melody, emotion, sincerity, and simplicity of the following line:

“It is not now as it hath been of yore

Turn wheresoe’er I may,

By night or day

The things which I have seen I now can see no more.”

“Ode: Intimation of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” by William Wordsworth

Defects in the “Ode: Intimation of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood” According to Critics

According to some critics, the poem also suffers from some defects:

  • The poem dwells too long on the idea of pre-existence— this fact marks the unity of thought.
  • The poem is out of harmony— with the spirit of true nature.
  • There is a sudden transition in thought after the first four stanzas of the poem— the reason is apparent because the first four stanzas were written in 1802, where the last seven were in 1806.

Conclusion

Whether we agree or not with the philosophical views expressed by Wordsworth in the “Ode: Intimation of Immortality from Recollections of Early Childhood,” we have to admit that this poem is his supreme lyrical achievement. His personal feelings find a naturally inspiring and spontaneous expression in this poem. 

According to Saintsbury, 

“This poem is not in every smallest detail yet as a wholly perfect and immortal. It could not have been written letter.”