Poem Analysis - Was There A Time

Introduction: Nostalgia and Loss

Dylan Thomas's "Was There A Time" is a poignant reflection on lost innocence and the harsh realities of the world. The poem begins with a yearning for a simpler, more carefree past, but quickly transitions into a darker acknowledgement of life's inherent dangers and the solace found in ignorance or isolation. The tone shifts from nostalgic longing to a more cynical acceptance of a world where vulnerability is a liability. The poem speaks to the universal human experience of grappling with the loss of innocence and the struggle to find safety and meaning in a precarious existence.

The Elusive Nature of Innocence

One of the primary themes of the poem is the irretrievable nature of innocence. The opening lines, "Was there a time when dancers with their fiddles/In children's circuses could stay their troubles?" immediately establishes a sense of longing for a past where joy and escape were readily available. The image of "children's circuses" evokes a sense of naive entertainment and a world untouched by the complexities of adult life. However, the subsequent line, "But time has sent its maggot on their track," abruptly shatters this idyllic vision, suggesting that time and experience inevitably corrupt and tarnish innocence. The "maggot" serves as a stark symbol of decay and the inevitable intrusion of harsh realities.

Safety in Ignorance and Isolation

The theme of safety through ignorance or isolation is developed in the latter half of the poem. The lines, "What's never known is safest in this life. / Under the skysigns they who have no arms / have cleanest hands," present a paradoxical view. The poem suggests that those who are unaware of the world's dangers, or who are physically incapable of causing harm ("no arms"), are somehow more protected. This concept extends to the "heartless ghost / Alone's unhurt," implying that emotional detachment can shield one from pain. Similarly, the "blind man sees best" perhaps alludes to the notion that not seeing the world's ugliness allows for a purer, less tainted perception. These images are not necessarily endorsements of ignorance or isolation, but rather reflections on how vulnerability can be minimized in a dangerous world.

The Sky as a Symbol of Threat

The recurring image of the sky functions as a potent symbol of both vastness and potential threat. The lines "Under the arc of the sky they are unsafe," and "Under the skysigns" suggest that even under the seemingly limitless expanse of the heavens, individuals are exposed and vulnerable. The "sky signs" could refer to astrological influences, suggesting that fate or destiny plays a role in their vulnerability. The vastness of the sky, which could be seen as liberating, is instead presented as a space where one is constantly under observation and potential danger. The sky is not a comforting canopy, but a constant reminder of the unknown and the uncontrollable.

Conclusion: A Lament for Lost Security

In conclusion, "Was There A Time" is a melancholic exploration of the loss of innocence and the search for safety in a world fraught with peril. The poem moves from a nostalgic yearning for a carefree past to a stark recognition of the dangers inherent in existence. Through vivid imagery and symbolic representations of the sky and human vulnerability, Dylan Thomas suggests that ignorance, isolation, or emotional detachment may offer a degree of protection from the harsh realities of life. Ultimately, the poem is a lament for the lost security of childhood and a somber reflection on the precariousness of human existence, leaving the reader to ponder whether true safety is ever attainable.