Poem Analysis - Lawyer

Initial Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's poem Lawyer presents a vivid snapshot of a courtroom scene, capturing the tension and anticipation that follows a jury's deliberation. The tone is initially somber and reflective, with a sense of gravity that befits the seriousness of the legal proceedings. There is a shift in mood as the lawyer for the defense prepares to speak, introducing a sense of resolve and quiet determination. The poem's straightforward language and detailed imagery create a powerful and evocative atmosphere.

Themes of Justice and Resilience

The poem explores several themes, with justice and resilience being the most prominent. The courtroom setting and the anticipation of the verdict highlight the theme of justice, emphasizing the weight of legal decisions and the impact they have on individuals' lives. The lawyer's readiness to challenge a guilty verdict, even in the face of adversity, underscores the theme of resilience. The lawyer's soft voice, colored with bitter wrongs and monumental patience, suggests a deep-seated determination to fight for justice, even when faced with unjust circumstances.

Imagery of the Courtroom

The courtroom imagery is rich and detailed, contributing to the poem's overall message. The jury filing in, the twiddling of thumbs, and the bailiffs taking fresh chews of tobacco all create a sense of heightened anticipation. The clock's ticking, which is usually unnoticed, becomes audible in the silence, symbolizing the passage of time and the inevitability of the verdict. These images collectively build a sense of tension and expectation, emphasizing the gravity of the moment. The lawyer's mythic Atlas shoulders, carrying the burden of unjust circumstances, is a powerful image that underscores the theme of resilience and the struggle for justice.

Symbolism of the Lawyer's Voice

The lawyer's voice is a central symbol in the poem, representing both the struggle for justice and the resilience needed to fight against injustice. The voice is described as soft yet tinged with bitter wrongs and monumental patience, suggesting a deep-seated determination and a willingness to endure hardship. The lawyer's readiness to speak, even in the face of a guilty verdict, highlights the theme of resilience and the ongoing fight for justice. The voice's softness contrasts with the harsh realities of the courtroom, emphasizing the lawyer's quiet strength and unwavering commitment.

Conclusion

Lawyer by Carl Sandburg is a poignant exploration of justice and resilience in the face of adversity. Through vivid courtroom imagery and powerful symbolism, the poem captures the tension and anticipation of a legal verdict, highlighting the struggle for justice. The lawyer's voice, tinged with bitter wrongs and monumental patience, embodies the resilience needed to fight against injustice. The poem's significance lies in its portrayal of the ongoing battle for justice, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of unjust circumstances.