Poem Analysis - The Song Of Hiawatha 18 The Death Of Kwasind

Overview of the Poem

The Song of Hiawatha 18: The Death of Kwasind by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a narrative poem that tells the story of Kwasind, a powerful and renowned figure among the nations. The poem begins with a tone of admiration and awe, highlighting Kwasind's unmatched strength and fame. However, the mood shifts to one of envy and malice as the mischievous Puk-Wudjies plot against him. The poem culminates in a tragic and unexpected end, blending elements of myth and nature.

Historical and Cultural Context

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, an American poet, drew inspiration from Native American folklore and legends for The Song of Hiawatha. This poem is part of a larger epic that aims to celebrate and preserve the stories and cultural heritage of Native American tribes. Longfellow's work reflects a romanticized view of Native American life, which was popular in the 19th century. The poem's setting and characters are rooted in the oral traditions of the Ojibwe people, adding a layer of authenticity and cultural richness to the narrative.

Themes: Envy and Malice

The poem explores the theme of envy and malice through the actions of the Puk-Wudjies, the Little People. Their jealousy of Kwasind's strength and fame drives them to conspire against him, illustrating how envy can lead to destructive behavior. The Puk-Wudjies' plot is fueled by their fear of being overshadowed and their desire to maintain their own significance. This theme is developed through the vivid imagery of the Puk-Wudjies gathering pine cones and the dramatic description of their ambush. The contrast between Kwasind's strength and the Puk-Wudjies' cunning highlights the destructive power of envy.

Themes: Mortality and Vulnerability

The theme of mortality and vulnerability is central to the poem. Despite Kwasind's immense strength, he has a single, fatal weakness: his crown. This vulnerability makes him susceptible to the Puk-Wudjies' attack, emphasizing the idea that even the strongest individuals have weaknesses. The poem uses the imagery of the pine cones as the only weapon capable of harming Kwasind, symbolizing the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. The sudden and unexpected nature of Kwasind's demise underscores the theme of mortality, reminding readers that no one is invincible.

Themes: Nature and the Supernatural

The poem blends elements of nature and the supernatural, creating a rich and mystical atmosphere. The natural setting of the river and the forest is intertwined with supernatural elements, such as the Spirit of Sleep, Nepahwin, and the Puk-Wudjies. The description of the river and the surrounding landscape contributes to the poem's sense of place and adds depth to the narrative. The supernatural elements, such as the Spirit of Sleep, serve to heighten the drama and mystery of Kwasind's death. The poem's use of nature and the supernatural underscores the interconnectedness of the natural and supernatural worlds in Native American folklore.

Symbolism and Imagery

The pine cones serve as a powerful symbol in the poem, representing both the fragility of life and the destructive power of envy. The fact that the pine cones are the only weapon capable of harming Kwasind emphasizes their significance. The imagery of the pine cones being gathered and used in the ambush adds a layer of tension and foreboding to the narrative. The river and the forest also serve as important symbols, representing the natural world and the setting in which the drama unfolds. The river's sluggish current and the drowsy atmosphere contribute to the sense of inevitability surrounding Kwasind's fate. The poem's use of vivid imagery and symbolism enhances its themes and adds depth to the narrative.

Conclusion

The Death of Kwasind is a poignant exploration of envy, mortality, and the supernatural. Through vivid imagery and symbolism, Longfellow weaves a tale that highlights the destructive power of envy and the fragility of life. The poem's blend of natural and supernatural elements creates a rich and mystical atmosphere, underscoring the interconnectedness of the natural and supernatural worlds. The tragic end of Kwasind serves as a reminder of the inevitability of death and the importance of recognizing our own vulnerabilities. The poem's enduring significance lies in its ability to captivate readers with its dramatic narrative and timeless themes.