Poem Analysis - The Song Of Hiawatha 13 Blessing The Cornfields

Overall Impression and Tone

The Song of Hiawatha 13: Blessing The Cornfields by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a serene and harmonious depiction of life in the land of the Ojibways. The poem begins with a peaceful and joyful tone, celebrating the end of conflict and the beginning of a prosperous time. However, there is a shift in mood when the ravens threaten the cornfields, introducing a sense of tension and conflict. The poem ultimately returns to a tone of triumph and celebration as the harvest is successfully gathered.

Themes of Peace and Prosperity

The poem prominently features the theme of peace and prosperity. The opening lines describe a time when warlike weapons are buried, and peace reigns among the nations. This peace allows for the flourishing of the community, with hunters and women working unmolested. The cornfields, symbolizing abundance and prosperity, are central to this theme. The maize is described as green and shining, filling the land with plenty. The peaceful and prosperous life of the Ojibways is contrasted with the threat posed by the ravens, highlighting the value of harmony and cooperation.

The Role of Women and Nature

Another significant theme is the role of women and nature in sustaining the community. The women are responsible for planting and harvesting the corn, following the teachings of Hiawatha. This highlights their crucial role in ensuring the prosperity of the community. Nature is also personified, with Mondamin, the spirit of corn, being buried and later stripped of his garments during the harvest. This theme underscores the deep connection between the community and the natural world, emphasizing the importance of living in harmony with nature.

Symbolism of the Ravens and the Cornfields

The ravens and the cornfields are recurring symbols in the poem. The ravens represent a threat to the community's prosperity, symbolizing destruction and chaos. Their attempt to steal the maize is thwarted by Hiawatha, who sets snares to catch them. The cornfields, on the other hand, symbolize abundance and the community's connection to the land. The magic circle drawn by Minnehaha protects the cornfields, emphasizing the importance of spiritual and communal efforts in maintaining prosperity. The ravens' defeat and the successful harvest underscore the triumph of peace and harmony over chaos and destruction.

Conclusion

The Song of Hiawatha 13: Blessing The Cornfields by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a celebration of peace, prosperity, and the deep connection between the community and nature. The poem uses vivid imagery and symbolism to convey its themes, highlighting the role of women and the importance of living in harmony with the natural world. The conflict with the ravens serves as a reminder of the constant struggle to maintain peace and prosperity, but ultimately, the poem affirms the triumph of harmony and cooperation. The poem's significance lies in its portrayal of a community that values peace, prosperity, and a deep connection to the land, offering a timeless message about the importance of these values in human life.