Poem Analysis - Upstream

Initial Impression and Tone

Carl Sandburg's "Upstream" is a powerful and repetitive poem that conveys a sense of resilience and perseverance. The tone is both celebratory and somber, reflecting the struggles and triumphs of strong individuals. The poem's mood shifts subtly between admiration for the strong men and women and acknowledgment of their hardships. The repetition of the phrase "The strong men keep coming on" creates a rhythmic, almost incantatory effect, emphasizing the unyielding spirit of the subjects.

Themes of Resilience and Perseverance

The primary theme of "Upstream" is resilience. The poem highlights the enduring strength of individuals who face and overcome numerous challenges. The strong men are described as going down "shot, hanged, sick, broken," yet they continue to "fight, sing, and live on." This theme is reinforced by the repetition of the phrase "The strong men keep coming on," which underscores the idea that despite adversity, these individuals persist. The use of the word "plungers" suggests a daring and fearless attitude, further emphasizing their resilience.

Symbolism of the Strong Mothers

The poem also explores the theme of support and nurturing. The "strong mothers" pulling the strong men from various challenging environments symbolize the foundational support that enables these individuals to endure. The imagery of pulling them from "a dark sea, a great prairie, a long mountain" suggests that these mothers provide the strength and guidance needed to navigate through life's difficulties. This symbolism highlights the importance of familial and communal support in fostering resilience.

Imagery of Nature and Struggle

The vivid imagery of nature in the poem, such as the "dark sea," "great prairie," and "long mountain," contributes to the overall message of struggle and endurance. These natural elements represent the various challenges and obstacles that the strong men and women must overcome. The repetition of these images reinforces the idea that life is a continuous journey filled with trials, but also with the strength to persevere. The call to "Call hallelujah, call amen, call deep thanks" at the end of the poem suggests a sense of gratitude and celebration for the resilience and perseverance of these individuals.

Conclusion

"Upstream" by Carl Sandburg is a poignant exploration of resilience, perseverance, and the importance of support. Through vivid imagery and repetitive phrases, the poem celebrates the unyielding spirit of individuals who face and overcome numerous challenges. The strong men and women in the poem serve as symbols of endurance, while the strong mothers represent the foundational support that enables this resilience. The poem's message is one of hope and gratitude, acknowledging the struggles and triumphs of those who keep coming on, despite the obstacles they encounter.