Poem Analysis - Homage To Sextus Propertius 6

Initial Impression and Tone

Ezra Pound's "Homage to Sextus Propertius - 6" is a reflective and somewhat melancholic poem that contemplates mortality and the legacy of historical figures. The tone shifts between a somber acceptance of death and a defiant assertion of personal legacy. The poem begins with a contemplative mood, imagining the afterlife and the fate of historical figures, and then transitions to a more personal reflection on the poet's own death and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. The language is rich and evocative, drawing on classical references to enhance its themes.

Historical and Personal Context

Ezra Pound, an American poet, was deeply influenced by classical literature and the modernist movement. His work often reflects a fascination with ancient cultures and a desire to bridge the gap between the past and the present. This poem, part of a series of homages to the Roman poet Sextus Propertius, showcases Pound's interest in classical themes and his ability to weave historical references into his own poetic voice. The poem's setting in the underworld and its references to Roman history and mythology highlight Pound's engagement with the classical tradition.

Themes of Mortality and Legacy

The central theme of the poem is mortality, explored through vivid imagery of death and the afterlife. The opening lines, "When, when, and whenever death closes our eyelids," set a contemplative tone, inviting the reader to consider the inevitability of death. The image of "the one raft" on the river Acheron, carrying both victor and conquered, underscores the idea that death is a great equalizer. This theme is further developed through references to historical figures like Marius and Jugurtha, who are united in death despite their differences in life. The poem also explores the theme of legacy, as the speaker reflects on what will be left behind after his death. The mention of "three books" as a gift to Persephone suggests a desire for literary immortality, a legacy that transcends physical death.

Themes of Love and Loss

The poem also delves into the theme of love and loss, particularly in the context of mourning. The speaker imagines a funeral without grand trappings, emphasizing a simple, plebeian procession. This contrasts with the elaborate rituals of the past, suggesting a more personal and intimate form of remembrance. The lines, "You will follow the bare scarified breast / Nor will you be weary of calling my name, nor too weary / To place the last kiss on my lips," evoke a deep, enduring love that persists even in death. The reference to Adonis and Cynthia further emphasizes the theme of love and loss, highlighting the futility of trying to bring back the dead. The phrase "Small talk comes from small bones" adds a layer of irony, suggesting that the physical remains of the dead are insignificant compared to the emotional legacy they leave behind.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with symbols and vivid imagery that contribute to its themes. The river Acheron, a classical symbol of the boundary between life and death, is a central image. The "one raft" on which Marius and Jugurtha travel together represents the idea that death unites all people, regardless of their earthly status. The "three books" offered to Persephone symbolize the speaker's literary legacy, a tangible form of immortality. The "Syrian onyx" and the "bare scarified breast" are evocative images that emphasize the physicality of death and the enduring nature of love. The "small plebeian procession" contrasts with the grand funerals of the past, suggesting a more personal and intimate form of remembrance. The poem's use of classical references and mythological allusions enriches its themes, providing a rich tapestry of meaning that invites multiple interpretations.

Conclusion

In "Homage to Sextus Propertius - 6," Ezra Pound explores the themes of mortality, legacy, and love through vivid imagery and classical references. The poem's contemplative tone and rich symbolism invite the reader to reflect on the inevitability of death and the enduring nature of love. The speaker's desire for a simple, personal legacy contrasts with the grand rituals of the past, emphasizing the importance of intimate remembrance. The poem's use of classical allusions and mythological references enriches its themes, providing a deep and layered exploration of human experience. Ultimately, the poem offers a poignant meditation on the enduring power of love and the legacy we leave behind.