Poem Analysis - The Meeting

Initial Impressions and Tone

The poem The Meeting by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a reflective and somewhat melancholic tone, capturing the bittersweet nature of reunions after a long absence. The poem oscillates between moments of warmth and nostalgia and a pervasive sense of loss and sadness. The initial lines set a contemplative mood, questioning the emotions that arise from such meetings. The poem's form, with its conversational and straightforward language, supports the themes of reminiscence and the passage of time.

Themes of Mortality and Loss

The poem explores the theme of mortality through the imagery of the tree of life and the few remaining berries. The tree of life, a common symbol of vitality and growth, is described as shaken, leaving only a few berries at the top. This imagery suggests the inevitability of loss and the dwindling of life's vitality. The phrase few of us linger now emphasizes the passage of time and the inevitability of death, highlighting the transient nature of life. The poem's tone shifts to a more somber note as it reflects on the absence of those who have passed away, underscoring the theme of loss.

Themes of Nostalgia and the Passage of Time

The theme of nostalgia is evident in the way the characters greet each other in an old, familiar tone, yet silently acknowledge the passage of time and the changes it brings. The phrase How old and gray he is grown! reveals a sense of nostalgia mixed with a touch of sadness. The poem also touches on the theme of the passage of time through the mention of Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, which are traditionally associated with hope and renewal, but here are tinged with a sense of loss and longing for the past. The living alone seem dead line underscores the idea that the past holds a stronger emotional grip than the present, further emphasizing the theme of nostalgia.

Symbolism of Ghosts and Shadows

The poem uses the symbol of ghosts and shadows to represent the lingering presence of the past and the dead. The line And at last we hardly distinguish Between the ghosts and the guests suggests that the memories of the deceased are as vivid and present as the living. The mist and shadow of sadness that steals over our merriest jests indicates that joy is tempered by a underlying sadness, a constant reminder of what has been lost. This symbolism contributes to the overall message of the poem, which is the inescapable influence of the past on the present and the bittersweet nature of remembrance.

Conclusion

The Meeting by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poignant exploration of the themes of mortality, nostalgia, and the passage of time. Through vivid imagery and a reflective tone, the poem captures the complex emotions that arise from reunions after a long absence. The symbolism of ghosts and shadows underscores the enduring presence of the past and the bittersweet nature of remembrance. Ultimately, the poem offers a profound insight into the human experience of loss and the enduring power of memory.