Poem Analysis - The Song Of Hiawatha 19 The Ghosts

Overall Impression and Tone

The Song of Hiawatha 19: The Ghosts by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a haunting and reflective narrative that blends elements of Native American folklore with a somber, contemplative tone. The poem begins with a vivid description of vultures descending upon their prey, setting a foreboding mood that carries through the story. This mood shifts subtly as the poem delves into the interactions between Hiawatha and the ghostly visitors, ultimately conveying a message of patience, hospitality, and the importance of respecting the departed. The narrative is rich with imagery and symbolism, creating a deep and layered exploration of themes.

Themes of Hospitality and Patience

The poem explores the theme of hospitality through the actions of Hiawatha and his family. Despite the strange and unsettling behavior of the ghostly visitors, Hiawatha and his family remain patient and welcoming. This is evident when Hiawatha says, "Only spake to bid them welcome to his lodge, his food, his fireside." This unwavering hospitality is a testament to their cultural values and their belief in the importance of treating guests with respect, even when those guests are ghosts. The theme of patience is also highlighted when the ghosts reveal their true identity and purpose, stating, "We have put you to the trial, to the proof have put your patience." This trial underscores the importance of endurance and forbearance in the face of adversity.

The Theme of Mortality and the Afterlife

The theme of mortality is central to the poem, as it deals with the presence of ghosts and the journey of the soul after death. The ghosts speak of the "Islands of the Blessed" and the "land of ghosts and shadows," providing a glimpse into their beliefs about the afterlife. The ghosts' instructions about burial practices and the journey of the soul emphasize the importance of respecting the dead and ensuring their safe passage to the afterlife. This theme is reinforced by the ghosts' plea to stop lamenting the dead, as it causes them sorrow. The poem suggests that the living should honor the dead through proper rituals and by moving forward with their lives, rather than being consumed by grief.

Symbolism of Vultures and Winter

The poem employs vivid imagery and symbolism to convey its themes. The opening description of vultures descending upon their prey symbolizes the inevitability of misfortune and the way disasters often come in succession. This imagery sets the stage for the arrival of the ghosts, who bring a different kind of trial. The harsh winter landscape, with its frozen lakes and snow-covered plains, serves as a backdrop for the story, symbolizing the cold and unforgiving nature of the challenges faced by Hiawatha and his family. The winter also represents the emotional chill that the ghosts bring into their home, contrasting with the warmth and hospitality of the living.

Conclusion

The Song of Hiawatha 19: The Ghosts is a rich tapestry of themes and symbols that explore the complexities of hospitality, patience, and mortality. Through the interactions between Hiawatha and the ghostly visitors, Longfellow conveys a profound message about the importance of respecting the dead and maintaining patience and hospitality in the face of adversity. The poem's vivid imagery and symbolic elements create a haunting and reflective narrative that invites readers to contemplate the deeper meanings of life, death, and the afterlife. Ultimately, the poem underscores the significance of cultural values and the enduring strength of the human spirit.