Poem Analysis - Who Sharpens Every Dull

A Passing Reminder of Transformation

E.E. Cummings's "Who Sharpens Every Dull" presents a whimsical yet poignant depiction of a transient figure who brings about renewal and change in the lives of ordinary people. The poem carries a gentle, almost fairytale-like tone, initially tinged with a hint of melancholy as it speaks of disappearing suns. This melancholy subtly shifts to a sense of hope and revitalization as the poem progresses, celebrating the cyclical nature of life and the potential for constant reinvention. The poem ultimately encourages us to consider the transformative power of accepting both the "dull" and the "sharp" aspects of existence.

The Sharpening of Lives: A Metaphor for Change

One of the central themes in this poem is the theme of change and transformation. The "man" who sharpens "every dull" is a symbolic figure, representing a catalyst for altering perspectives and experiences. The dullness he addresses isn't necessarily negative; it simply signifies the stagnancy or routine that can settle into lives. By sharpening these dull edges, he introduces a renewed sense of possibility and purpose. This theme is developed through the imagery of sharpening, a process that inherently implies both refinement and potential danger, as hinted by "you'd almost cut your thumb." The act of sharpening becomes a metaphor for embracing change, even when it might be uncomfortable or painful.

The Cycle of Life and Rebirth

The poem also explores the theme of the cycle of life and rebirth. The "disappearing sun" suggests endings or periods of darkness, but the poem immediately introduces the "only man" who offers a solution, implying that even in darkness, there is the potential for renewal. The final stanza explicitly connects this idea to the moon's reappearance, reinforcing the cyclical nature of existence. The "sun" and "moon" aren't just celestial bodies but symbols of phases in life – times of joy and hardship, growth and decay. This cyclical theme offers a comforting perspective, suggesting that even after difficult times ("when our sun is gone"), a new light ("reappear a moon") will emerge.

The Elusive Nature of Meaning

Another significant theme revolves around the enigmatic nature of meaning and value. The "man" doesn't seem to care whether he is paid or not, suggesting that his service isn't driven by monetary gain. Instead, he seems motivated by a deeper, perhaps spiritual, purpose. The diverse reactions of the people – a smile, a tear, inability to pay – highlight the subjective nature of value and the varied ways people respond to change. The line "he sharpens is to am / he sharpens say to sing" further emphasizes this elusive quality. It suggests that the act of sharpening can transform one's very being, enabling expression and creativity. This ambiguity leaves the reader questioning what truly motivates the "man" and what constitutes genuine value in a world where change is the only constant.

The Symbolism of the Sharpening Wheel

The sharpening wheel is a powerful symbol within the poem. It represents the transformative process itself, the means by which "dull" lives are made "keen." The wheel's circular motion mirrors the cyclical nature of life discussed earlier. The fact that the "man" slings the wheel upon his back suggests that he carries this transformative power with him, ready to share it with those who need it. It also implies a sense of transience and impermanence, as he is always moving on, leaving behind a legacy of sharpened lives. The image of the wheel, combined with the sound of the bell, creates a memorable sensory experience, reminding the reader of the continuous opportunity for renewal.

A Lingering Echo of Hope

In conclusion, "Who Sharpens Every Dull" is a deceptively simple poem that delves into profound themes of change, rebirth, and the elusive nature of meaning. The poem's fairytale quality, combined with Cummings's characteristic playfulness with language, creates a memorable and thought-provoking reading experience. The image of the "man" with his sharpening wheel and bell serves as a potent reminder that even in the darkest of times, the potential for renewal and transformation always exists. Even when he is gone, "we can hear him still," suggesting that the impact of his work – the "keen" lives he has sharpened – continues to resonate, offering a lasting echo of hope.