Poem Analysis - To M L S

An Ode to Inspiration: Introduction

Edgar Allan Poe's "To M.L.S." is a deeply reverential poem, overflowing with adoration for a figure who embodies hope and redemption. The tone is overwhelmingly grateful and almost worshipful, creating an atmosphere of profound respect. There's a subtle shift from describing the general impact of M.L.S. on others to a personal declaration of devotion in the final stanzas. The poem reads like a heartfelt hymn, celebrating the power of one individual to uplift and inspire.

Echoes of Faith: Theme of Redemption

One of the poem's central themes is redemption. The speaker describes M.L.S. as a force that rescues people from despair and even metaphorical death. Lines like "lying down to die, have suddenly arisen / At thy soft-murmured words, 'Let there be light!'" strongly suggest a savior figure. This theme is further reinforced by the imagery of "resurrection of deep-buried faith," highlighting M.L.S.'s ability to revive not only hope but also belief in fundamental virtues. The power attributed to M.L.S. transcends the ordinary, bordering on the miraculous.

Light Against Darkness: Hope and Despair

The poem heavily contrasts hope and despair, using vivid imagery to represent these opposing forces. M.L.S.'s presence is associated with "morning" and the "sacred sun," symbolizing enlightenment and warmth. Conversely, her absence is equated with "night" and the "blotting utterly from out high heaven," suggesting darkness and oblivion. This stark contrast emphasizes the transformative power of M.L.S. Her influence is not merely positive; it's a force that actively combats and overcomes despair, offering solace and a renewed sense of purpose. This reinforces the intensity of gratitude felt towards her.

An Angelic Muse: The Power of Inspiration

A key theme revolves around inspiration and its almost divine source. The poem explicitly compares M.L.S. to an angel: "His spirit is communing with an angel’s." This comparison elevates her to a being of immense beauty and goodness, suggesting that she is not just a person but a conduit for something higher. The "seraphic glancing of thine eyes" further emphasizes this angelic quality, portraying her gaze as a source of divine inspiration. The speaker sees her as a catalyst for his own creative expression, as evidenced by the fact that he is moved to write these very lines.

Heavenly Glimmer: Symbolism of Light and Eyes

The recurring symbol of light is powerfully intertwined with the image of M.L.S.'s eyes. The phrase "Let there be light!" directly alludes to the biblical creation story, imbuing M.L.S. with a godlike power to banish darkness and bring forth hope. Her eyes are described as "seraphic glancing," further emphasizing their connection to the divine and their ability to illuminate the lives of others. The phrase could also be interpreted as an allusion to the enlightenment that can only come from love. Given Poe's complex personal life, one might wonder if the speaker conflates his desire for a divine figure with his longing for human connection.

Tribute of Gratitude: Conclusion

In conclusion, "To M.L.S." is a testament to the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others. Through vivid imagery, powerful symbolism, and an unwavering tone of reverence, Poe crafts a poem that celebrates redemption, hope, and the divine inspiration found in the presence of a remarkable individual. The poem ultimately underscores the transformative power of human connection and the enduring significance of faith and love in the face of despair. The speaker's gratitude is not merely a feeling; it's a form of worship, suggesting that M.L.S. represents something truly sacred and life-affirming.