Poem Analysis - Burial

A Glimpse of Mortality

Goethe's "Burial" is a short, contemplative poem that reflects on mortality and the fleeting nature of life. The poem opens with a somber scene of a funeral procession, quickly shifting to the perspective of the observing citizens. This shift creates a tone of detached observation, which then morphs into a more introspective and slightly cynical reflection on wealth and inheritance. The poem's brevity belies its profound meditation on death's inevitability and the enduring presence of earthly concerns even in the face of mortality.

The Looming Shadow of Death

One of the central themes of "Burial" is the stark reality of mortality. The opening lines immediately establish this theme with the image of a maiden being carried to her grave. This image serves as a potent reminder that death is an inescapable part of the human experience. The citizens, witnessing the funeral, are prompted to consider their own eventual demise: "We too from our dwellings ere long must be torn." The poem uses the concrete event of a burial to trigger a broader contemplation of the temporary nature of earthly existence, emphasizing that everyone, regardless of their current status, will eventually face the same fate.

Wealth and Succession: Earthly Concerns

The theme of wealth and succession is tightly interwoven with the poem's reflection on mortality. The citizens, described as living "In splendor" and enjoying lavish banquets, are concerned not only with their own deaths but also with what will become of their possessions. The lines "And he that is left our departure to mourn, / To our riches will be the successor," highlight a somewhat cynical view of human nature. Even in the face of death, their thoughts turn to inheritance and the continuation of their wealth, suggesting a persistent attachment to material possessions and worldly power. This contrasts sharply with the solemnity of death, revealing a preoccupation with legacy and control that extends beyond the grave.

The Unblinking Eye of Observation: Detachment and Judgment

A key element of the poem is the detached observation of the citizens. They "went to the window to explore," suggesting a curiosity that is almost voyeuristic. This act of observation underscores a sense of distance between the citizens and the event of the burial, creating a tone of detachment. This detachment allows the poem to subtly critique the citizens' values and their preoccupation with wealth. The poem doesn't explicitly condemn them, but their thoughts and concerns, juxtaposed with the finality of death, invite the reader to question their priorities and the transient nature of their earthly possessions. The window itself might symbolize the barrier between the living and the dead, but also between the observer and the observed, highlighting the citizens' removed perspective.

A Lasting Reflection on Life's Transience

In conclusion, "Burial" is a concise yet powerful meditation on mortality, wealth, and human nature. Through vivid imagery and a shifting perspective, Goethe exposes the contrast between the finality of death and the enduring concerns of the living. The poem invites us to consider our own mortality and the values we prioritize in the face of life's transience. Ultimately, "Burial" suggests that while death is inevitable, our preoccupation with earthly matters can often overshadow the deeper meaning of existence, leaving us clinging to possessions and legacies that ultimately pale in comparison to the enduring reality of our shared human fate.