Poem Analysis - The Rainbow

Initial Impression and Tone

The poem The Rainbow by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a reflective and heartfelt exploration of the enduring connection between childhood and adulthood. The tone is nostalgic and hopeful, with a sense of continuity and natural piety. The poem begins with a joyful exclamation and maintains a consistent, uplifting mood throughout, culminating in a wish for a life bound by natural piety.

Themes of Continuity and Natural Piety

The poem explores several interconnected themes. The first is the continuity of life and the enduring connection between childhood and adulthood. Longfellow expresses this through the repetition of the phrase So was it when my life began, emphasizing that his joy in seeing a rainbow has remained constant throughout his life. This repetition underscores the theme of continuity and the idea that the essence of a person remains unchanged from childhood to old age.

The second theme is natural piety, which refers to a reverence for nature and the natural order of life. Longfellow wishes for his days to be bound each to each by natural piety, suggesting a desire for a life lived in harmony with nature and its cycles. This theme is reinforced by the imagery of the rainbow, a natural phenomenon that symbolizes beauty and hope.

The third theme is the inevitability of aging and mortality. The poem acknowledges the passage of time and the inevitability of growing old and dying. However, it does so in a way that is accepting and even hopeful, suggesting that the beauty and wonder of life can be found at every stage of existence.

Symbolism of the Rainbow

The rainbow is the central symbol in the poem, representing beauty, hope, and the natural order of life. It is a vivid image that evokes a sense of wonder and awe, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring connection between childhood and adulthood. The rainbow also symbolizes the continuity of life, as it appears and disappears in a cycle that mirrors the natural order of the world.

The rainbow's appearance in the sky is a moment of joy and wonder for the speaker, and it serves as a reminder of the beauty and wonder that can be found in the natural world. This symbolism contributes to the overall message of the poem, which is a celebration of the enduring connection between childhood and adulthood and a call to live in harmony with nature.

The Significance of the Poem

The Rainbow is a poignant reflection on the continuity of life and the enduring connection between childhood and adulthood. Through its vivid imagery and heartfelt tone, the poem invites readers to reflect on their own lives and the ways in which they are connected to the natural world. The poem's message is one of hope and acceptance, suggesting that the beauty and wonder of life can be found at every stage of existence. Ultimately, The Rainbow is a celebration of the enduring connection between childhood and adulthood and a call to live in harmony with nature.