Poem Analysis - The Burial Of The Poet

Initial Impressions and Tone

The Burial of the Poet by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a reflective and somber piece that captures the solemnity of a poet's burial. The tone is predominantly melancholic, with a sense of reverence and awe. The poem begins with a quiet, respectful mood, which shifts slightly to a more mystical and contemplative tone as it progresses. The use of natural imagery and religious symbolism enhances the poem's atmosphere of reverence and mystery.

Themes of Mortality and Legacy

The poem explores the themes of mortality and legacy. The opening lines describe the burial of the poet in his ancestral tomb, emphasizing the inevitability of death. The phrase in the sleep that comes to all underscores the universal experience of mortality. The poet's renown and the respect he receives from the dead around him suggest that his legacy lives on, even after his death. This theme is further developed through the imagery of the snow, which symbolizes purity and eternal rest.

Themes of Nature and Spirituality

Nature and spirituality are intertwined in the poem, creating a sense of harmony between the natural world and the divine. The falling snow is described as white flowers of Paradise, linking the natural phenomenon to a spiritual realm. The moon shining on the snow-covered scene adds to the mystical atmosphere, suggesting a connection between the earthly and the heavenly. The leafless trees casting cruciform shadows evoke religious imagery, reinforcing the theme of spirituality.

Symbolism of Snow and Shadows

The snow and the shadows of the leafless trees are recurring symbols that contribute to the poem's overall message. The snow represents purity, peace, and the eternal rest that the poet has found. It also serves as a blank canvas on which the shadows of the trees are inscribed, creating a visual metaphor for the poet's legacy. The cruciform shadows of the trees are particularly significant, as they evoke the image of the cross, a powerful symbol of sacrifice and redemption in Christianity. The comparison to the winding-sheet of Saladin with chapters of the Koran adds a layer of mystery and universality, suggesting that the poet's legacy transcends religious boundaries.

Conclusion

The Burial of the Poet by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poignant reflection on mortality, legacy, and the interconnectedness of nature and spirituality. Through vivid imagery and symbolic language, the poem conveys a sense of reverence and awe for the poet's life and work. The snow and the shadows of the leafless trees serve as powerful symbols that underscore the themes of purity, eternal rest, and the enduring legacy of the poet. The poem ultimately invites readers to contemplate the mysteries of life, death, and the spiritual dimensions that connect us all.