Poem Analysis - Notes For Canto 120

Initial Impression and Tone

Ezra Pound's "Notes For Canto 120" presents a reflective and introspective mood, with a tone that is both humble and hopeful. The poem begins with a sense of longing and effort, as the speaker attempts to capture the essence of paradise. There is a shift towards acceptance and forgiveness in the latter part of the poem, suggesting a journey from striving to letting go. The simplicity of the language and the sparse use of words contribute to a serene and contemplative atmosphere.

Themes of Struggle and Acceptance

The poem explores the theme of struggle, particularly the struggle to create something beautiful or meaningful. The opening line, "I have tried to write Paradise," indicates a **desire for perfection** and the effort involved in achieving it. This struggle is contrasted with the theme of acceptance, as the speaker eventually lets go and allows natural elements, like the wind, to speak. The shift from trying to create paradise to letting it be suggests a movement from control to surrender.

Themes of Forgiveness and Redemption

Another prominent theme is forgiveness, both seeking it from a higher power and from loved ones. The lines "Let the Gods forgive what I have made" and "Let those I love try to forgive what I have made" highlight the speaker's acknowledgment of imperfection and the need for redemption. This theme is intertwined with the struggle for perfection, as the speaker recognizes the flaws in their creation and seeks absolution. The repetition of the phrase "what I have made" emphasizes the personal nature of this quest for forgiveness.

Symbolism of the Wind and Paradise

The wind serves as a powerful symbol in the poem, representing the natural and the divine. The speaker's instruction to "Let the wind speak" suggests a surrender to forces beyond human control, a **letting go** of personal efforts in favor of something more profound and eternal. The wind, in this context, becomes a voice of paradise, a state of being that is not created but experienced. This symbolism contributes to the overall message of acceptance and trust in the natural order.

Conclusion: The Journey to Acceptance

In summary, "Notes For Canto 120" is a poem about the journey from striving to acceptance, from seeking perfection to finding peace in imperfection. Through the themes of struggle, forgiveness, and the symbolism of the wind, Pound explores the human condition and the quest for meaning. The poem's simplicity and introspective tone invite readers to reflect on their own journeys and the moments of surrender that lead to true understanding and peace. The final lines, with their plea for forgiveness, underscore the humility and vulnerability that often accompany such realizations.