Poem Analysis - Flower De Luce The Wind Over The Chimney

Initial Impression and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Flower-de-luce: The Wind Over The Chimney" presents a contemplative and introspective mood, shifting between moments of inspiration and despair. The poem begins with a quiet, almost melancholic tone as the speaker lingers by a dying fire, but it soon escalates into a dramatic confrontation between the speaker's aspirations and the harsh realities of the world. The dialogue between the flames and the night-wind creates a dynamic tension, reflecting the speaker's inner struggle.

Themes of Aspiration and Mortality

The poem explores the theme of aspiration through the speaker's interaction with the flames, which urge him to "Aspire!" The flames symbolize the speaker's dreams and ambitions, encouraging him to pursue greatness. However, the night-wind challenges this optimism, suggesting that these aspirations are merely "visions" that lead to "darkness." This conflict highlights the struggle between hope and despair, ambition and resignation. The theme of mortality is also prominent, as the poem repeatedly references the transient nature of life and achievement. The night-wind's assertion that "Dust are all the hands that wrought" underscores the fleeting nature of human endeavors and the inevitability of decay.

The Role of Literature and Legacy

Another significant theme is the role of literature and legacy. The flames gleam on "volumes of old days," written by "masters of the art," suggesting that literature has the power to transcend time and inspire future generations. The night-wind, however, dismisses this idea, claiming that books are merely "sepulchres of thought" and that the laurels of the dead are as transient as "withered leaves in lonely churchyards." This theme reflects the tension between the enduring impact of art and the ephemeral nature of human achievement. The speaker's final response to the night-wind's despairing message emphasizes the value of the pursuit itself, rather than the outcome, suggesting a more existential interpretation of legacy.

Symbolism of Fire and Wind

The poem employs vivid imagery and symbolism to convey its themes. The fire represents the speaker's aspirations and the enduring power of literature, while the night-wind symbolizes the harsh realities of life and the passage of time. The fire's flickering flames and the wind's relentless howling create a stark contrast, reflecting the speaker's inner turmoil. The fire's ability to illuminate old volumes and inspire the speaker contrasts with the wind's destructive and despairing messages. This dynamic interplay of symbols underscores the poem's exploration of hope and despair, ambition and resignation. The final image of the dying fire, likened to the brand of Meleager, suggests the transient nature of human endeavors, but the speaker's defiant response adds a layer of resilience and acceptance.

Conclusion

In "Flower-de-luce: The Wind Over The Chimney," Longfellow presents a profound meditation on the human condition, exploring the themes of aspiration, mortality, and the role of literature. Through the vivid symbolism of fire and wind, the poem captures the tension between hope and despair, ambition and resignation. The speaker's final assertion that "No endeavor is in vain" offers a poignant insight into the significance of the pursuit itself, suggesting that the true value lies in the journey rather than the destination. This poem invites readers to reflect on their own aspirations and the enduring power of human endeavor, even in the face of life's inevitable challenges.