Poem Analysis - In Durance

Initial Impressions and Tone

Ezra Pound's "In Durance" is a deeply introspective poem that conveys a sense of longing and isolation. The tone is melancholic and wistful, with the speaker expressing a profound homesickness for a kindred spirit. The mood shifts subtly from a sense of loneliness to a hopeful yearning for connection, particularly with those who share a deep appreciation for beauty and the arts. The poem's free verse form allows for a fluid expression of these emotions, mirroring the speaker's restless and searching state of mind.

Themes of Isolation and Longing

The primary theme of "In Durance" is isolation. The speaker feels disconnected from the people around them, describing them as "friendly faces" but not truly kindred spirits. This isolation is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual. The speaker longs for a connection with those who understand and share their passion for beauty and the arts. This longing is expressed through repeated phrases like "I am homesick after mine own kind," which emphasize the speaker's desire for a deeper, more meaningful connection.

The theme of longing is closely tied to the theme of isolation. The speaker's longing is not just for physical companionship but for a spiritual and intellectual kinship. This longing is expressed through vivid imagery of "swirlers out of the mist of my soul" and "the unbounded ones," suggesting a yearning for a connection that transcends the ordinary. The speaker's longing is also expressed through the use of religious and mystical language, such as "DAEMON" and "Quasi KALOUN," which suggest a desire for a transcendent experience.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and imagery, which contribute to its themes of isolation and longing. The "flame" that "reaches not beyond my heart's own hearth" is a powerful symbol of the speaker's inner turmoil and isolation. The flame represents the speaker's passion and longing, which are contained within their heart and do not reach out to the world. This image suggests a sense of inner conflict and a desire for connection that is not fully realized.

The "seas" and "hills" that separate the speaker from their kindred spirits are also significant symbols. They represent the physical and emotional barriers that prevent the speaker from connecting with others. The "purple and sapphire" seas and the "little hills to east of us" suggest a sense of distance and separation, but also a sense of beauty and possibility. The speaker's soul sings "Up!" despite these barriers, suggesting a sense of hope and resilience.

Connection and Unity

The final theme of the poem is connection and unity. Despite the speaker's sense of isolation and longing, there is a sense of unity and connection that transcends physical and emotional barriers. The speaker's love for their kindred spirits is described as a force that connects them, like the wind that calls the singing from the boughs. This image suggests a sense of harmony and unity, despite the challenges and obstacles that the speaker faces. The poem ends on a note of hope and connection, with the speaker expressing their love for their kindred spirits and their desire to be united with them.