Poem Analysis - Come To My Cantilations

Initial Impression and Tone

Ezra Pound's "Come To My Cantilations" presents a vivid and evocative invitation to a world free from negativity and constraints. The poem's tone is initially urgent and somewhat desperate, as if the speaker is yearning for a release from burdensome emotions and environments. However, it shifts to a more hopeful and celebratory mood as the speaker envisions a world filled with beauty, grace, and wit. The poem's free verse form supports this shift, allowing the language to flow freely and express the speaker's longing for liberation.

Themes of Freedom and Liberation

The most prominent theme in "Come To My Cantilations" is the desire for freedom and liberation. The speaker repeatedly uses the phrase "Let me be free of" to express a longing to escape from oppressive elements, such as "pavements" and "the printers." These elements can be seen as metaphors for the constraints of urban life and the pressures of modern society. The speaker's wish to "dump our hatreds into one bunch and be done with them" further emphasizes this theme, suggesting a desire to rid oneself of negative emotions and start anew.

Themes of Beauty and Grace

The poem also explores the theme of beauty and grace, which is evident in the speaker's vivid descriptions of the natural world and the people they wish to invite. The "hot sun," "clear water," and "fresh wind" create a sense of vitality and purity, while the "beautiful people" wearing "raw silk of good colour" suggest a world of elegance and refinement. The "graceful speakers," "ready of wit," and those who are "gay of manner" further emphasize the theme of grace, presenting a vision of a society where intelligence and charm are valued.

Themes of Community and Connection

Another significant theme is the desire for community and connection. The speaker's use of the phrase "Let come" repeated throughout the poem suggests a longing for the presence of others, specifically those who embody the qualities of beauty, grace, and wit. The speaker's invitation to "be done with" hatreds also implies a desire for unity and harmony, suggesting that the speaker seeks not just personal liberation, but a collective experience of freedom and joy.

Symbolism of Natural Elements

The poem is rich in symbolism, particularly in its use of natural elements. The "hot sun," "clear water," and "fresh wind" can be seen as symbols of vitality, purity, and renewal. These elements contrast with the "pavements" and "printers," which represent the artificial and oppressive aspects of modern life. The "burnished lakes" and "dry air, as clear as metal" further emphasize the theme of purity and clarity, suggesting a world free from the corruption and confusion of urban life.

Conclusion

"Come To My Cantilations" is a powerful expression of the human desire for freedom, beauty, and connection. Through vivid imagery and evocative language, Pound presents a vision of a world where negativity and constraint are cast aside, and where grace, wit, and community flourish. The poem's themes of liberation, beauty, and connection resonate deeply, inviting readers to consider their own longings for a more pure and harmonious existence. The poem's significance lies in its ability to evoke a sense of longing and hope, reminding us of the power of imagination and the possibility of transformation.