Poem Analysis - Footsteps Of Angels

An Overview of Longing and Comfort

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Footsteps of Angels" is a poignant exploration of memory, loss, and the enduring presence of loved ones. The poem begins with a reflective and somewhat melancholic tone, evoking the quiet moments of the evening when the speaker's thoughts turn to those who have passed away. The mood shifts subtly from a sense of longing to a comforting reassurance, as the speaker finds solace in the imagined visits of departed loved ones. The poem's form, with its regular rhythm and rhyme, supports the themes of continuity and the enduring presence of the past.

Themes of Memory and Loss

The poem delves deeply into the theme of memory and loss. Longfellow uses the imagery of the evening to symbolize the transition from the present to the past, as the "hours of Day are numbered" and the "voices of the Night" awaken the speaker's memories. The "forms of the departed" entering through the "open door" represent the speaker's vivid recollections of loved ones who have died. This imagery underscores the idea that memory can bridge the gap between the living and the dead, providing a sense of continuity and comfort. The speaker's recollection of "the young and strong" who "fell and perished" and "the holy ones and weakly" who "bore the cross of suffering" highlights the universality of loss and the shared human experience of grief.

The Theme of Enduring Love

Another prominent theme is the enduring nature of love, particularly in the context of loss. The speaker's remembrance of a "Being Beauteous" who was a source of love and support in youth, now "a saint in heaven," illustrates how love transcends death. The image of this beloved figure taking a "vacant chair beside" the speaker and laying a "gentle hand in mine" emphasizes the enduring presence of love. This theme is further developed through the speaker's description of the beloved's "deep and tender eyes," which are likened to "stars, so still and saint-like," suggesting a celestial and eternal quality to their love. The speaker finds comfort in the memory of this love, which helps to alleviate feelings of depression and loneliness.

Symbolism of the Evening and the Visits

The evening setting and the visits from the departed are rich with symbolism. The evening represents a time of reflection and introspection, when the boundaries between the living and the dead seem to blur. The "fitful firelight" casting "phantoms grim and tall" on the wall adds a sense of mystery and the supernatural, suggesting that the visits from the departed are more than mere memories; they are almost tangible presences. The "noiseless footstep" of the beloved and the "spirit's voiceless prayer" further emphasize the ethereal and otherworldly nature of these visits. These symbols contribute to the overall message of the poem, which is that the love and memories of the departed can provide comfort and solace in times of loneliness and despair.

Conclusion: The Enduring Presence of Love

In "Footsteps of Angels," Longfellow explores the themes of memory, loss, and enduring love through vivid imagery and symbolism. The poem's reflective tone and the imagery of the evening setting create a sense of introspection and connection with the past. The visits from the departed, particularly the beloved figure from the speaker's youth, highlight the enduring nature of love and its ability to provide comfort in times of grief. The poem ultimately suggests that the memories and love of those who have passed away can offer a sense of continuity and solace, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and despair. Through its exploration of these themes, "Footsteps of Angels" offers a profound meditation on the enduring presence of love and the power of memory to bridge the gap between the living and the dead.