Poem Analysis - Old Age

Initial Impression and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Old Age" is a reflective and introspective poem that explores the speaker's journey through life and his contemplation of mortality. The tone is somber and philosophical, with a sense of resignation and acceptance of the inevitable. The poem begins with a sense of arrival at the end of life's journey, and shifts to a mood of reflection on past experiences and desires. The speaker's journey is described as tumultuous, reflecting the challenges and uncertainties of life.

Themes of Mortality and Reflection

The poem prominently features the theme of mortality. The speaker acknowledges that his life has reached its final harbor, where he must account for his past actions. The imagery of the "fragile bark" and the "tempestuous sea" suggests a life filled with struggles and uncertainties, culminating in the inevitability of death. The phrase "two deaths may be mine" refers to both the physical death and the spiritual reckoning that awaits him, emphasizing the dual nature of his mortality.

Another significant theme is reflection on past desires and illusions. The speaker looks back on his youthful passions and desires, describing them as illusions and vanities. The "impassioned phantasy" that made art an idol and a king to him is now seen as an illusion. This reflection highlights the transient nature of worldly desires and the futility of chasing after them. The speaker's past dreams of love are now seen as fleeting and insignificant in the face of mortality.

The theme of spiritual awakening is also present. The speaker's soul is now turning to the "Love Divine," symbolized by the cross. This shift suggests a spiritual awakening or conversion, where the speaker finds solace and meaning in divine love. The cross, a powerful Christian symbol, represents sacrifice and redemption, contrasting with the fleeting desires of his past.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and vivid imagery. The "fragile bark" and the "tempestuous sea" symbolize the journey of life, filled with challenges and uncertainties. The "common harbor" represents the end of life, where the speaker must account for his actions. This imagery underscores the theme of mortality and the inevitability of death.

The "impassioned phantasy" and the "desires that lured me and harassed" symbolize the speaker's past passions and worldly desires. These symbols are contrasted with the "Love Divine," which represents spiritual enlightenment and redemption. The cross, as a symbol of divine love, stands in stark contrast to the fleeting desires of the past, highlighting the speaker's spiritual awakening.

The "two deaths" mentioned in the poem can be interpreted as the physical death and the spiritual reckoning. This ambiguity adds depth to the poem, inviting readers to reflect on the dual nature of mortality and the importance of spiritual preparation. The phrase "one sure, and one forecasting its alarms" suggests that while physical death is certain, the spiritual reckoning is a source of anxiety and uncertainty.

Conclusion

In "Old Age," Longfellow explores the themes of mortality, reflection, and spiritual awakening through vivid imagery and powerful symbolism. The poem's somber tone and philosophical reflection on life's journey underscore the inevitability of death and the transient nature of worldly desires. The speaker's turn to the "Love Divine" offers a sense of redemption and spiritual solace, contrasting with the fleeting passions of his past. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own journeys and the ultimate destination of life's voyage.