Poem Analysis - Tangibles

Initial Impressions and Tone

Carl Sandburg's "Tangibles" presents a reflective and somewhat melancholic tone, contrasting the stark realities of urban life with the ethereal qualities of dreams and hopes. The poem shifts between the tangible and the intangible, the seen and the unseen, creating a sense of longing and uncertainty. The speaker's observations of a city by day and by night serve as a backdrop for deeper contemplations on life, love, and the human condition. The poem's form, with its repetitive phrases and rhythmic structure, supports the themes of repetition and the cyclical nature of life and hope.

Themes of Hope and Disillusionment

The poem explores the theme of hope and disillusionment through the contrasting images of day and night. During the day, the city is seen in a straightforward, almost mundane light, while at night, it takes on a more mystical and hopeful quality. The "dome" in the poem, which could symbolize a building or a broader concept of urban life, is described as having a "dream-whisper" at night, suggesting a time when hopes and dreams are more vivid. This contrast highlights the idea that true hope and dreams often emerge in the darkness, away from the harsh realities of daylight. The repetition of "not today, child, not today, lover; maybe tomorrow, child, maybe tomorrow, lover" underscores the deferred nature of hope, suggesting a persistent but elusive optimism.

Themes of Mortality and Loss

The poem delves into the theme of mortality and loss through the imagery of a "mother of men, a sister, a lover, a woman past the dreams of the living." This figure, who is described as "sad, singing and red," could represent a lost loved one or the collective memory of those who have passed away. The question "Does she go sad, singing and red out of the float of this dome?" suggests a sense of longing and loss, as if the speaker is trying to connect with something that is forever out of reach. The "float of the dome" could symbolize the transient nature of life and the enduring presence of those who have left us, adding a layer of melancholy to the poem.

Symbolism of the Dome

The dome is a recurring symbol in the poem, representing both the tangible and intangible aspects of urban life. During the day, it is a physical structure, but at night, it takes on a more symbolic role, becoming a vessel for dreams and hopes. The question "Can a dome of iron dream deeper than living men?" poses an intriguing idea: that inanimate objects can hold deeper meanings and emotions than living beings. This could be interpreted as a commentary on the enduring nature of symbols and the power they hold over our collective consciousness. The dome's "float" among the tree-tops adds a sense of ethereality, suggesting that it is not just a physical structure but a symbol of something more profound and elusive.

Conclusion

In "Tangibles," Carl Sandburg weaves a tapestry of hope, loss, and the enduring power of symbols. The poem's contrast between day and night, the tangible and the intangible, serves as a backdrop for deeper reflections on the human condition. The dome, as a central symbol, embodies both the physical and metaphysical aspects of urban life, highlighting the enduring power of symbols and the dreams they inspire. Ultimately, the poem invites readers to consider the **tangible and intangible elements** that shape our experiences and the hopes that sustain us, even in the face of loss and uncertainty.