Poem Analysis - Roman Elegies XVII

Introduction: A Love Song Triggered by Annoyance

Goethe's "Roman Elegies XVII" presents a seemingly simple scenario: a man's changing feelings towards a dog's barking. The poem begins with an expression of annoyance, a common human experience, but quickly transforms into a subtle celebration of love and anticipation. The tone shifts from irritation to affection, driven by the connection the speaker makes between the barking and the presence (or potential presence) of his lover. It's a concise exploration of how even unpleasant things can become imbued with positive meaning through the lens of love.

From Annoyance to Affection: The Dog as Catalyst

The primary theme of this poem is the transformative power of love. The speaker initially expresses a universal sentiment: irritation at loud noises, especially the "barking of dogs." However, this generalized dislike is immediately qualified. One dog's barking is different, even pleasurable. This shift isn't based on the dog's inherent qualities, but on its association with the speaker's lover. The barking, once a source of annoyance, now serves as a reminder of her presence or the anticipation of her arrival. Thus, love reframes a negative experience into a positive one, demonstrating its power to alter perception.

The Secret Rendezvous: Love and Deception

Another significant theme is the clandestine nature of the love affair. The lines about the dog nearly betraying their "secret" reveal that the relationship is not public or sanctioned. This element of secrecy adds a layer of excitement and risk to the lovers' encounters. The dog's barking becomes a symbol of this secrecy, a potential threat that is ultimately embraced. The speaker's recollection of waiting for his lover "when she came" further emphasizes the theme of anticipation and the joy derived from these hidden moments.

Barking as Symbol: Remembrance and Anticipation

The recurring image of the dog barking takes on symbolic weight. Initially representing a nuisance, it evolves into a symbol of both remembrance and anticipation. The speaker associates the barking with the memory of his sweetheart's clandestine visits and the near exposure of their secret. More importantly, the sound becomes a trigger for hope: "Now, hearing him bark, I always think: she’s here!" This suggests that the speaker actively seeks out and finds pleasure in what was once merely irritating. The barking embodies the complex emotions tied to the secret love affair – the anxiety of discovery, the joy of reunion, and the constant anticipation of the next meeting.

Conclusion: Love's Echo in Everyday Life

"Roman Elegies XVII" is a testament to the enduring power of love to transform the mundane. By associating an everyday annoyance – a dog's barking – with the presence and memory of his beloved, the speaker demonstrates how love can imbue even the most irritating experiences with meaning and joy. The poem reveals how deeply intertwined love can become with our sensory experiences, turning ordinary sounds into reminders of passion and anticipation. Ultimately, Goethe suggests that love's echo can be found in the most unexpected corners of our lives.