Poem Analysis - By The Seaside The Secret Of The Sea

Initial Impressions and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "By The Seaside: The Secret Of The Sea" is a reflective and nostalgic poem that evokes the romantic allure of the sea. The poem begins with a tone of pleasant reminiscence, as the speaker recalls old legends and dreams inspired by the sea. This initial mood shifts to one of longing and mystery as the speaker delves into the tale of Count Arnaldos and his quest to learn the secret of the sea. The poem's free verse form supports its contemplative and flowing nature, mirroring the ebb and flow of the sea itself.

Themes of Longing and Mystery

The primary theme of the poem is the longing for the unknown. The speaker's fascination with the sea and its mysteries is evident from the start, as he recalls romantic legends and dreams. This longing is intensified through the story of Count Arnaldos, who is captivated by the helmsman's song and desires to learn its secret. The sea itself becomes a symbol of the unknown and the unknowable, representing the mysteries of life and the universe. The speaker's longing is not just for knowledge but also for the experience of braving the sea's dangers, suggesting a desire for adventure and personal growth.

Another significant theme is the power of memory and imagination. The poem begins with the speaker's pleasant visions and old dreams, indicating the enduring power of memory. The sea serves as a catalyst for these memories, triggering a flood of romantic legends and personal reflections. The speaker's imagination is vividly depicted through the detailed descriptions of the sea and the story of Count Arnaldos, showing how the mind can create and explore entire worlds within itself. This theme is reinforced by the poem's free verse form, which allows the speaker's thoughts and memories to flow freely and unconstrained.

Symbolism of the Sea and the Helmsman's Song

The sea is the most prominent symbol in the poem, representing the unknown, the mysterious, and the vast expanse of human experience. It is described as having a "thrilling pulse," suggesting a living, breathing entity that stirs the speaker's soul. The sea's mysteries are personified through the helmsman's song, which is described as "wild and clear" and capable of captivating even sea-birds. The song represents the allure of the unknown, drawing the listener in with its enchanting melody and leaving them longing for more. The helmsman himself can be seen as a symbol of wisdom and experience, having braved the sea's dangers and thus comprehending its mysteries.

The silver sand and the "sails of silk and ropes of sandal" are vivid images that contribute to the poem's romantic and nostalgic atmosphere. The silver sand, in particular, is a striking image that emphasizes the beauty and allure of the seaside. It also serves as a metaphor for the passage of time, as sand is often associated with the hours and days that slip away. The sails of silk and ropes of sandal are images drawn from ancient lore, further emphasizing the poem's theme of memory and the enduring power of romantic legends.

Conclusion

In "By The Seaside: The Secret Of The Sea," Longfellow explores the themes of longing, mystery, and the power of memory and imagination. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem delves into the human desire to understand the unknown and the allure of the mysterious. The sea serves as a powerful symbol of these themes, representing the vast and unknowable aspects of life and the universe. The poem ultimately invites the reader to reflect on their own longings and mysteries, encouraging a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around us. The speaker's journey from pleasant reminiscence to intense longing mirrors the human experience of being drawn to the unknown, highlighting the enduring power of the sea's enchanting allure.