Poem Analysis - Flower De Luce The Bells Of Lynn

Initial Impressions and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Flower-de-luce: The Bells Of Lynn" is a lyrical poem that captures the haunting beauty of a coastal town at dusk. The poem's tone is initially serene and contemplative, evoking a sense of tranquility as the day ends. However, there is a subtle shift towards the mystical and eerie, particularly in the latter stanzas, as the bells seem to summon supernatural elements. This shift creates a sense of wonder and slight unease, blending the natural with the supernatural.

Themes of Nature and the Supernatural

The poem explores several interconnected themes, with nature and the supernatural being the most prominent. The bells of Lynn serve as a central motif, representing the passage of time and the transition from day to night. The imagery of the setting sun, crimson twilight, and the evening wind all contribute to a sense of natural beauty and the inevitable cycle of day and night. The bells' sounds are described as aerial and wafted, suggesting a gentle, ethereal quality that bridges the natural and supernatural worlds.

Themes of Communication and Connection

Another significant theme is communication and connection. The bells' sounds travel across the landscape, reaching various listeners, including the fisherman, wandering cattle, and the distant lighthouse. This interconnectedness highlights the idea that nature and human activities are intertwined, with the bells serving as a unifying force. The lighthouse's response to the bells, passing on the watchword, further emphasizes this theme of communication and mutual awareness.

Themes of Mystery and the Unknown

The poem also delves into the theme of mystery and the unknown. The bells' ability to summon the spectral moon and the reference to the weird woman of Endor add a layer of supernatural intrigue. The spectral moon and the woman of Endor are both symbols of the mysterious and otherworldly, suggesting that the bells hold a power beyond mere auditory perception. This theme of mystery is reinforced by the final lines, where the bells cry aloud and then fall silent, leaving the reader with a sense of unresolved enchantment.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The bells of Lynn are the most recurring symbol in the poem, representing both the passage of time and a connection to the supernatural. Their sounds are described as aerial and wafted, suggesting a delicate, ethereal quality that transcends the physical world. The bells' ability to summon the spectral moon and the reference to the weird woman of Endor further emphasize their supernatural significance. The crimson twilight and the evening wind are vivid images that contribute to the poem's atmospheric setting, creating a sense of tranquility and mystery. The fisherman, wandering cattle, and the lighthouse are all listeners who respond to the bells' call, highlighting the theme of communication and connection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Longfellow's "Flower-de-luce: The Bells Of Lynn" is a richly layered poem that explores the themes of nature, the supernatural, communication, and mystery. The bells of Lynn serve as a central symbol, bridging the natural and supernatural worlds and connecting various elements of the landscape. The poem's serene yet enigmatic tone, along with its vivid imagery, creates a hauntingly beautiful depiction of a coastal town at dusk. The bells' ability to summon the spectral moon and the reference to the weird woman of Endor add a layer of supernatural intrigue, leaving the reader with a sense of wonder and unresolved enchantment. This poem invites readers to contemplate the mysteries of nature and the unknown, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things.