Poem Analysis - On The Breakwater

Initial Impressions and Tone

Carl Sandburg's On The Breakwater presents a serene and intimate scene between a man and a woman on a breakwater. The poem's tone is quiet and reflective, capturing a moment of silent communication and connection. The mood shifts subtly from the tranquility of the couple's interaction to the intrusion of the boat's searchlight, adding a touch of mystery and disruption to the otherwise peaceful setting. The poem's form, with its free verse and lack of punctuation, supports the natural and unforced nature of the scene it describes.

Themes of Intimacy and Connection

One of the main themes in On The Breakwater is intimacy and connection. The couple is described as sitting face to face, talking without words, and singing rhythms in silence. This suggests a deep, almost telepathic understanding between them. The phrase she across his knee emphasizes their physical closeness and the comfort they share. This intimacy is further highlighted by the repetition of the phrase two on the breakwater keep their silence, which underscores their unity and shared experience.

The Intrusion of the Outside World

Another theme is the intrusion of the outside world into their private moment. The boat with its searchlight represents an external force that disrupts their peaceful scene. The searchlight is described as puzzled and abrupt, suggesting a sense of confusion or disruption. This intrusion could symbolize the challenges and distractions that often interrupt moments of intimacy and connection in real life. The couple's continued silence in the face of this disruption emphasizes their resilience and the strength of their bond.

Symbolism of the Breakwater and the Searchlight

The breakwater serves as a significant symbol in the poem. It represents a place of refuge and safety, a boundary between the open sea and the shore. The couple's choice to sit on the breakwater suggests they are seeking a safe and private space for their connection. The searchlight from the outgoing boat is another powerful symbol. It represents the unpredictable and often intrusive nature of the outside world. The searchlight's abrupt and puzzled movements contrast with the couple's calm and deliberate actions, highlighting the tension between their intimate moment and the external world.

Conclusion

On The Breakwater by Carl Sandburg captures a moment of deep intimacy and connection between a man and a woman, set against the backdrop of a tranquil yet slightly disrupted natural setting. The poem's themes of intimacy, the intrusion of the outside world, and the symbols of the breakwater and the searchlight all contribute to a rich and nuanced exploration of human connection. The poem ultimately invites readers to reflect on the delicate balance between private moments of intimacy and the inevitable intrusions of the outside world, and to appreciate the resilience and strength of human bonds in the face of such disruptions.