Poem Analysis - The Song Of Hiawatha 7 Hiawathas Sailing

An Invocation to Nature

The Song of Hiawatha 7: Hiawatha's Sailing by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a vivid and evocative narrative poem that captures the essence of Native American folklore and the deep connection between humans and nature. The poem's tone is reverent and respectful, with a sense of awe for the natural world. The mood shifts from a serene, almost meditative state to one of action and purpose as Hiawatha builds his canoe and sails down the river. The poem's form, with its rhythmic and repetitive language, supports the overall meaning by creating a sense of continuity and harmony with nature.

Themes of Harmony and Connection

The poem explores several themes, including the harmony between humans and nature, the importance of friendship, and the power of creation. The theme of harmony is evident in Hiawatha's respectful requests to the trees and his acknowledgment of their sacrifices. For example, when Hiawatha asks the birch tree for its bark, he acknowledges the tree's importance and the timing of his request, saying, "For the Summer-time is coming, And the sun is warm in heaven, And you need no white-skin wrapper." This respectful interaction highlights the mutual respect and interdependence between humans and nature.

The Power of Creation and Friendship

The theme of creation is central to the poem, as Hiawatha builds his canoe from the gifts of nature. Each element of the canoe, from the birch bark to the cedar boughs, represents a different aspect of nature's generosity. The canoe itself becomes a symbol of the harmony and connection between Hiawatha and the natural world. The theme of friendship is also prominent, as Hiawatha calls upon his friend Kwasind to help clear the river. Their collaboration underscores the importance of community and mutual support in achieving a common goal.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with vivid imagery and recurring symbols. The birch canoe, for instance, is a powerful symbol of the harmony between humans and nature. It represents the union of different elements of nature, each contributing to the whole. The canoe's ability to float like a yellow leaf in autumn or a water-lily further emphasizes its natural origins and its harmony with the river. The river itself is a symbol of life's journey, with its bends, deeps, and shallows representing the challenges and triumphs that Hiawatha encounters. The recurring imagery of the natural world, from the rustling trees to the rushing river, reinforces the poem's themes of connection and harmony.

Conclusion

The Song of Hiawatha 7: Hiawatha's Sailing is a beautiful exploration of the deep connection between humans and nature. Through its vivid imagery, respectful tone, and recurring symbols, the poem highlights the importance of harmony, creation, and friendship. The canoe, as a symbol of unity and purpose, embodies the poem's central themes and offers a profound insight into the significance of our relationship with the natural world. The poem invites readers to reflect on their own connections to nature and the importance of respecting and honoring the natural world.