Poem Analysis - Flower De Luce Divina Commedia

Overall Impression and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Flower-de-luce: Divina Commedia" is a reflective and reverent poem that explores the spiritual journey and the transformative power of divine grace. The poem's tone is initially contemplative and solemn, shifting to one of awe and redemption as it progresses. Longfellow uses vivid imagery and symbolic language to convey the profound impact of religious devotion and the quest for spiritual enlightenment. The poem's structure, divided into six sections, mirrors the stages of a spiritual pilgrimage, each section deepening the reader's understanding of the themes.

Historical and Biographical Context

Longfellow, a prominent American poet of the 19th century, was deeply influenced by European literature and culture. His admiration for Dante Alighieri, the author of the "Divina Commedia" (The Divine Comedy), is evident in this poem. Longfellow's work often reflects his interest in the spiritual and moral struggles of humanity, themes that are central to Dante's masterpiece. The poem can be seen as a tribute to Dante and an exploration of the enduring power of his vision.

Themes: Spiritual Journey and Redemption

The poem's primary theme is the spiritual journey and the quest for redemption. Longfellow uses the imagery of a cathedral and its surroundings to symbolize the path to spiritual enlightenment. In the first section, the speaker enters the cathedral, leaving behind the "tumult of the time," which represents the distractions and troubles of the world. The "eternal ages watch and wait," suggesting a timeless and divine presence that guides the seeker. This imagery underscores the idea of a sacred space where the soul can find peace and redemption.

Themes: The Power of Divine Grace

Another significant theme is the power of divine grace in transforming the soul. In the fourth section, the speaker encounters a figure who represents the divine, described as having a "snow-white veil and garments as of flame." This figure's presence melts the "ice about thy heart," symbolizing the removal of sin and the cleansing of the soul. The speaker's "full confession" and the subsequent "perfect pardon" illustrate the transformative power of divine grace, leading to "perfect peace." This theme is reinforced by the imagery of light and warmth, contrasting with the cold and darkness of sin.

Themes: The Enduring Legacy of Dante

The poem also explores the enduring legacy of Dante and his "Divina Commedia." Longfellow refers to Dante as the "poet saturnine," whose work is a "medieval miracle of song." The speaker strives to follow in Dante's footsteps, seeking to understand and experience the spiritual truths conveyed in his poetry. The final section of the poem emphasizes the universal appeal of Dante's vision, with "men devout" from various nations hearing his "wondrous word." This theme highlights the timeless relevance of Dante's work and its ability to inspire spiritual awakening across different cultures and eras.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The cathedral serves as a central symbol in the poem, representing the sacred space where the spiritual journey unfolds. The "sculptures that adorn these towers" and the "fiends and dragons on the gargoyled eaves" symbolize the duality of human experience, encompassing both the divine and the demonic. The "voice celestial" that begins with the words "Although your sins as scarlet be" and ends with "as the snow" represents the promise of redemption and the cleansing power of divine grace. The "great Rose" that displays "Christ's Triumph" and the "angelic roundelays" symbolize the ultimate victory of good over evil and the eternal joy of the redeemed soul. The "organ sounds" and "unseen choirs" singing "old Latin hymns of peace and love" further emphasize the theme of spiritual harmony and divine presence.

Conclusion

In "Flower-de-luce: Divina Commedia," Longfellow masterfully weaves together themes of spiritual journey, redemption, and the enduring legacy of Dante's vision. Through vivid imagery and symbolic language, the poem invites readers to reflect on their own spiritual paths and the transformative power of divine grace. The cathedral, with its sacred space and divine presence, serves as a powerful symbol of the quest for spiritual enlightenment. The poem's final insight is the universal appeal of Dante's work, which continues to inspire and guide seekers of truth across different cultures and eras. Longfellow's tribute to Dante underscores the timeless relevance of his vision and its ability to illuminate the human soul's journey towards redemption and peace.