Poem Analysis - Upstairs

Initial Impressions and Tone

Carl Sandburg's poem "Upstairs" presents a nostalgic and somewhat melancholic reflection on childhood memories. The tone is introspective and slightly sad, as the speaker reminisces about forgotten toys stored in an attic. The repetition of the phrase "I too have a garret of old playthings" creates a sense of shared experience, suggesting that many people have similar memories. The mood shifts subtly from a sense of longing to a quiet acceptance of the passage of time.

Themes of Nostalgia and the Passage of Time

The primary theme of the poem is nostalgia. The speaker's recollection of old toys evokes a sense of longing for the past. The toys, now broken and dusty, symbolize the passage of time and the inevitable decay of childhood innocence. The repetition of the phrase "upstairs" emphasizes the idea that these memories are stored away, both literally and metaphorically, in a place that is out of sight and out of mind.

Themes of Abandonment and Isolation

Another significant theme is abandonment. The toys, once cherished, are now neglected and forgotten. This abandonment mirrors the speaker's own sense of isolation and disconnection from their past. The toys, with their broken arms and missing wheels, are symbols of the speaker's own fragmented memories and the loss of childhood joy. The phrase "I never look at them upstairs" underscores this sense of abandonment, as the speaker has chosen to ignore these relics of their past.

Symbolism of the Garret and the Toys

The garret, or attic, serves as a powerful symbol in the poem. It represents a place of storage and forgetfulness, where old memories and experiences are kept out of sight. The toys themselves are vivid images that evoke childhood innocence and playfulness. The tin soldiers with broken arms, the wagon with missing wheels, and the magic lantern all represent different aspects of the speaker's past. The dust that covers these toys symbolizes the passage of time and the fading of memories. The jumping-jack and the drum, once sources of joy and excitement, now lie forgotten, highlighting the transient nature of childhood pleasures.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Upstairs" by Carl Sandburg is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, the passage of time, and the sense of abandonment that comes with growing up. Through vivid imagery and symbolic language, Sandburg captures the bittersweet nature of childhood memories and the inevitable decay of innocence. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own forgotten toys and the memories they hold, offering a universal experience of longing and loss. The repeated phrase "I too have a garret of old playthings" serves as a reminder that these feelings are shared, connecting the speaker's personal experience to a broader human condition.