Poem Analysis - High Conspiratorial Person

Initial Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's "High Conspiratorial Person" presents a stark and somber tone, reflecting a deep sense of disillusionment and cynicism. The poem begins with a sense of reluctance and deceit, as indicated by the "reluctant lips" and "scrupulous liars." The mood shifts from a grim acknowledgment of human corruption to a desperate hope for redemption, as suggested by the final lines. The poem's form, with its free verse and fragmented structure, supports the fragmented and chaotic nature of the themes it explores.

Themes of Corruption and Redemption

The poem explores the theme of corruption through vivid imagery of deceit and moral decay. The "oaths and mouths of such scrupulous liars" and "perjurers whose hands swore by God" highlight the pervasive nature of dishonesty and betrayal. This corruption is not limited to individuals but extends to entire societies, as seen in the reference to "the scabs of Babylon and Jerusalem to the scabs of London and New York." The theme of redemption emerges in the final lines, where the speaker hopes to "wring one reluctant desperate drop of blood, one honest-to-God spot of red speaking a mother-heart." This suggests a longing for purity and truth amidst the corruption.

Themes of Historical Continuity and Human Struggle

The poem also delves into the theme of historical continuity and the enduring struggle of humanity. The phrase "across the millenniums of human marches and babblings" underscores the idea that human corruption and the quest for redemption are timeless issues. The "rag saturated with smears and smuts" symbolizes the accumulated sins and struggles of humanity over time. This theme is further emphasized by the reference to "the footbaths of kings and the loin cloths of beggars," highlighting the shared humanity and common struggles of all people, regardless of their social status.

Symbolism of the Rag and the Drop of Blood

The rag is a central symbol in the poem, representing the accumulated sins, struggles, and histories of humanity. It is described as being "saturated with smears and smuts," indicating the deep and pervasive nature of human corruption. The rag has "wiped the secret sores of kings and overlords," suggesting that even those in power are not immune to moral decay. The drop of blood symbolizes the speaker's hope for redemption and truth. The phrase "one honest-to-God spot of red speaking a mother-heart" suggests a pure and genuine emotion, a beacon of hope amidst the corruption. The ambiguity of whether this drop of blood can truly be wrung from the rag leaves the reader with a question: Can redemption be found in a world so deeply corrupted?

Conclusion

"High Conspiratorial Person" by Carl Sandburg is a powerful exploration of human corruption, historical continuity, and the quest for redemption. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem conveys a sense of disillusionment with the pervasive nature of deceit and moral decay. However, it also offers a glimmer of hope for purity and truth, suggesting that even in the darkest of times, there is a possibility for redemption. The poem's significance lies in its timeless themes and its ability to resonate with readers across different eras, reminding us of the enduring struggle between corruption and redemption in human society.