Poem Analysis - Manitoba Childe Roland

Overall Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's "Manitoba Childe Roland" is a poignant and reflective poem that weaves together the narrative of Robert Browning's "Childe Roland to the Dark Tower Came" with a vivid, personal anecdote. The poem begins with a serene and somewhat nostalgic tone, as the speaker reads to a young girl, but it shifts to a more introspective and somber mood as the speaker delves into the harsh realities of endurance and perseverance. The narrative oscillates between the bleak, desolate landscapes of both the poem and the real-life sled derby, creating a sense of isolation and determination.

Themes of Isolation and Endurance

The poem explores the theme of isolation through the imagery of vast, empty landscapes and the solitary journeys of the characters. In the Browning poem, the man crosses a "big prairie" where "nothing happens" and "nobody home," emphasizing the vastness and emptiness of his surroundings. Similarly, the sled derby runner faces a "blizzard" and "snow drifts," highlighting his isolation and the harsh conditions he must endure. This isolation is not just physical but also emotional, as the runner must push through despite the "whimpering" of his dogs and the "blisters" on his feet. The theme of endurance is evident in the runner's relentless pursuit despite the odds, embodying the spirit of perseverance and resilience.

Symbolism of the "Wonder-Cry"

The "wonder-cry" from Browning's poem is a recurring symbol that represents the indomitable spirit and the call for help or recognition. The sled derby runner carries this "wonder-cry" within him, symbolizing his unyielding determination and the inner strength that drives him to continue despite his physical and mental struggles. The "wonder-cry" also serves as a connection between the fictional narrative and the real-life story, emphasizing the universal human experience of facing adversity. The ambiguity of whether the "wonder-cry" is a call for help or a defiant shout adds depth to the symbol, inviting readers to ponder its multiple meanings.

The Child's Perspective

The six-year-old girl's presence in the poem adds a layer of innocence and wonder. Her inability to understand the poem's complexities contrasts with the speaker's deep reflection, highlighting the gap between childhood innocence and adult experience. The girl's "haze of autumn hills" in her eyes suggests a dreamy, unspoiled perspective, which is juxtaposed with the harsh realities described in the poem. This contrast underscores the theme of the passage of time and the loss of innocence, as the speaker reflects on the enduring spirit of the sled derby runner and the timelessness of human struggle.

Conclusion

"Manitoba Childe Roland" is a rich tapestry of themes and symbols that explore the human condition through the lenses of isolation, endurance, and the passage of time. The poem's vivid imagery and recurring symbols, such as the "wonder-cry," create a powerful narrative that resonates with the universal experiences of struggle and perseverance. The contrast between the child's innocence and the adult's reflection adds depth to the poem, inviting readers to contemplate the enduring spirit of humanity in the face of adversity. Ultimately, the poem underscores the significance of resilience and the indomitable human spirit, even in the most desolate and challenging circumstances.