Poem Analysis - In The Harbour Becalmed

In The Harbour: Becalmed by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a vivid and introspective exploration of the human mind's quest for inspiration and creativity. The poem's tone is initially contemplative and somewhat stagnant, reflecting a state of inactivity and waiting. However, it shifts towards a fervent plea for inspiration, culminating in a sense of anticipation and hope. The poem's form, with its loose, flowing lines, mirrors the ebb and flow of thought and inspiration.

The Poet's Background and Context

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a prominent American poet of the 19th century, was known for his lyrical and narrative poems. His works often delve into themes of history, mythology, and personal reflection. In this poem, Longfellow draws on his personal experiences and philosophical musings, creating a universal narrative about the creative process and the search for inspiration.

Themes of Stagnation and Longing

The poem begins with a sense of stagnation, as the speaker's mind is becalmed, or stuck, in a state of inactivity. The phrase "Becalmed upon the sea of Thought" sets the stage for this theme, using the image of a ship without wind to symbolize a mind without inspiration. The speaker longs for movement and progress, as indicated by the repeated use of the word "blow" in the final stanzas. This longing is a central theme, driving the poem's narrative and emotional arc.

Themes of Inspiration and Creativity

The speaker's plea for the "breath of inspiration" and the "breath of song" highlights the theme of creativity. The poem suggests that inspiration is a force that can fill the sails of the mind, propelling it forward. The speaker's desire to feel the "straining sail, the lifting keel" indicates a yearning for the dynamic, active state of creativity. This theme is closely tied to the theme of longing, as the speaker's desire for inspiration is what drives the poem's narrative.

Themes of Mystery and the Unknown

The poem also explores the theme of mystery, particularly the mystery of the creative process. The speaker refers to the "motion and mystery" of the awakening sea, suggesting that inspiration is a force that is both powerful and enigmatic. The use of the word "mystery" implies that the speaker does not fully understand the source of inspiration, but is drawn to it nonetheless. This theme adds a layer of depth to the poem, inviting readers to ponder the nature of creativity and inspiration.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and imagery, with the sea serving as a powerful metaphor for the mind and the creative process. The "sea of Thought" represents the vast, often turbulent landscape of the human mind, while the becalmed ship symbolizes a mind without inspiration. The "golden dome of mist" and the "level floor of amethyst" add a sense of otherworldliness to the scene, suggesting that inspiration comes from a place beyond the ordinary. The "breath of inspiration" and the "breath of song" are personified, giving them a sense of agency and power. These symbols and images work together to create a vivid and evocative portrait of the creative process.

Conclusion

In The Harbour: Becalmed is a powerful exploration of the human mind's quest for inspiration and creativity. Through its vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem invites readers to reflect on their own experiences with stagnation and longing, and to consider the mysterious and powerful force of inspiration. The poem's final lines, with their sense of anticipation and hope, suggest that inspiration is always within reach, waiting to fill the sails of the mind and propel it forward. This poem serves as a reminder of the enduring power of creativity and the human spirit's unyielding quest for expression.