Poem Analysis - Medallion

Initial Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's "Medallion" presents a deeply personal and introspective tone, focusing on the enduring memory of a loved one. The poem begins with a sense of reverence and intimacy, as the speaker describes keeping a brass medallion with the profile of a woman's face. The tone shifts subtly from a quiet, almost reverential mood to one of longing and hope, particularly in the final lines where the woman's silent wishes and swearing are mentioned. The poem's form, with its free verse and conversational language, supports the intimate and reflective nature of the speaker's thoughts.

Themes of Memory and Longing

The poem explores the theme of memory, particularly the enduring power of remembrance. The speaker keeps the medallion in a special, secret pocket during the day and under the pillow at night, indicating the constant presence of the memory in their life. This theme is reinforced by the imagery of the medallion being carried and kept close, symbolizing the speaker's unwillingness to let go of the past. The theme of longing is also prominent, as the speaker's actions and the woman's silent wishes suggest a deep yearning for something or someone that is gone. The phrase a woman waits; a woman swears behind silent lips that the sea will bring home what is gone emphasizes this longing, hinting at a loss that the speaker hopes to recover.

The Symbolism of the Medallion

The brass medallion serves as a powerful symbol in the poem, representing both the enduring memory of the woman and the speaker's longing for her. The medallion's journey, described as having come from a long ways off and having endured hell and high water, fire and flood, suggests a history of hardship and resilience. This journey mirrors the emotional journey of the speaker, who has experienced loss and continues to hold onto the memory of the woman. The medallion's profile of the woman's face also symbolizes the speaker's idealized memory of her, a memory that is kept close and cherished. The medallion's presence in the speaker's life, both day and night, underscores the constant and enduring nature of this memory.

The Sea as a Symbol of Hope and Uncertainty

The sea is another significant symbol in the poem, representing both hope and uncertainty. The woman's belief that the sea will bring home what is gone suggests a hope for recovery or reunion, despite the uncertainty of whether this will actually happen. The sea's vast and unpredictable nature reflects the speaker's own uncertainty and longing, as they hold onto the hope that the woman will return. This symbolism adds a layer of complexity to the poem, highlighting the tension between hope and uncertainty that the speaker experiences. The sea's role in the poem also raises questions about the nature of loss and recovery, inviting readers to consider their own experiences with these themes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Carl Sandburg's "Medallion" is a poignant exploration of memory, longing, and the enduring power of remembrance. Through the use of vivid imagery and powerful symbols, the poem delves into the speaker's intimate and reflective thoughts about a loved one. The medallion and the sea serve as central symbols, representing the speaker's enduring memory and hope for recovery. The poem's significance lies in its ability to evoke a sense of longing and uncertainty, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences with loss and remembrance. Ultimately, the poem underscores the enduring power of memory and the human capacity to hold onto hope, even in the face of uncertainty.