Poem Analysis - The Song Of Hiawatha 1 The Peace Pipe

An Invocation of Unity and Peace

The Song of Hiawatha: The Peace-pipe by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is an evocative narrative poem that blends mythical elements with a call for unity and peace among Native American tribes. The poem begins with a serene and majestic tone, describing the actions of Gitche Manito, the Master of Life, as he creates the Peace-pipe and summons the nations. However, the mood shifts to one of tension and conflict as the warriors gather, only to return to a sense of harmony and resolution by the end. The poem's form, with its long, flowing lines and descriptive language, supports its epic and mythical themes.

Historical and Cultural Context

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, a prominent American poet, wrote The Song of Hiawatha in the mid-19th century. The poem reflects the romanticized and often idealized views of Native American culture that were prevalent during this time. Longfellow drew inspiration from various sources, including Native American folklore and the work of European romantic poets. The poem was part of a broader literary movement that sought to celebrate and preserve the stories and traditions of indigenous peoples, even as those peoples faced significant challenges and threats to their way of life.

Themes of Unity and Conflict

The poem explores several interconnected themes, with unity and conflict being the most prominent. The conflict is evident in the initial gathering of the warriors, who are described as having faces of stem defiance and hearts filled with hereditary hatred. This conflict is contrasted with the theme of unity, which is embodied in the creation and smoking of the Peace-pipe. Gitche Manito's speech emphasizes the importance of unity, stating that all the warriors' strength lies in their union and their danger in discord. The resolution of the conflict comes when the warriors bathe in the river, wash away their war-paint, and bury their weapons, symbolizing their commitment to peace and unity.

The Power of Symbolism

The Peace-pipe itself is a powerful symbol in the poem, representing harmony, communication, and the shared humanity of the tribes. The act of smoking the pipe together is a ritual that binds the warriors in a pact of peace. Another significant symbol is the river, which flows from Gitche Manito's footprints and is described as both clear and limpid and dark and stained with crimson. This duality reflects the dual nature of the warriors themselves, who are capable of both violence and peace. The river's cleansing power is a metaphor for the transformation of the warriors from enemies to brothers.

The Role of Nature and the Divine

Nature plays a crucial role in the poem, serving as both a backdrop and an active participant in the narrative. The mountains, the quarry, the river, and the forest are all described in vivid detail, emphasizing their importance. Gitche Manito, the Master of Life, is a divine figure who interacts with the natural world, creating the Peace-pipe from the red stone of the quarry and the reed from the river. His actions are described in a way that blends the natural and the supernatural, highlighting the interconnectedness of all things. The divine intervention in the poem underscores the idea that peace and unity are not just human endeavors but are supported and guided by a higher power.

Conclusion: A Call for Harmony

The Song of Hiawatha: The Peace-pipe is a powerful call for unity and peace, using mythical and natural elements to convey its message. Through the creation and smoking of the Peace-pipe, the poem illustrates the transformative power of harmony and the dangers of discord. The vivid imagery and symbolism in the poem serve to reinforce these themes, making them accessible and resonant. Ultimately, the poem offers a vision of a world where conflict is resolved through communication and mutual respect, and where the strength of unity is celebrated. This vision remains relevant and inspiring, reminding readers of the enduring importance of peace and harmony in human society.