Poem Analysis - Tales Of A Wayside Inn Part 1 Interlude 1

An Overview of the Poem

The poem Tales Of A Wayside Inn Part 1. Interlude 1 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a lively conversation among a group of individuals at an inn. The tone is initially reflective and somewhat nostalgic, shifting to humorous and then to more serious as the characters discuss the value of different types of stories and heroes. The poem captures a moment of cultural reflection, where the past and present intersect in a way that challenges traditional notions of heroism and storytelling.

Themes of Heroism and Storytelling

The poem explores the theme of heroism, contrasting the romanticized heroes of old with the more relatable heroes of contemporary times. The Landlord's sword, a symbol of past heroism, is juxtaposed with the unnamed ancestor who fought as a Colonel of the Volunteers. The Poet's admiration for this ancestor, who is described as a grander shape, highlights the idea that true heroism can be found in ordinary people. The poem also delves into the theme of storytelling, with the Student emphasizing the importance of tales that blend the human and divine, such as those found in the Decameron. This theme is developed through the contrast between the Landlord's tale of arms and the Student's tale of love, suggesting that both types of stories have their own unique power to inspire and entertain.

The Significance of the Sword

The sword that hangs on the wall is a central symbol in the poem, representing the romanticized heroism of the past. Its dimness with dust and rust contrasts with the vibrant, relatable heroism of the unnamed ancestor. The Poet's exclamation that the sword is of a good knight, despite its lack of a famous name, underscores the idea that true heroism is not defined by fame or grandeur but by the actions and character of the individual. The sword serves as a reminder of the past, but it is the Poet's words that bring it to life, suggesting that stories and interpretations can breathe new meaning into old symbols.

The Role of the Poet and the Student

The Poet and the Student play crucial roles in the poem, each representing different aspects of storytelling and heroism. The Poet's admiration for the unnamed ancestor and his dismissal of the famous swords like Excalibur and Joyeuse highlight his appreciation for the ordinary hero. The Student, on the other hand, emphasizes the importance of tales that blend the human and divine, suggesting that stories have the power to elevate the ordinary to the extraordinary. The Student's reference to Ariosto and the Decameron underscores the idea that stories can inspire and entertain, regardless of their setting or subject matter. Together, the Poet and the Student represent the duality of storytelling, where the past and present, the ordinary and the extraordinary, can coexist and enrich each other.

Conclusion

The poem Tales Of A Wayside Inn Part 1. Interlude 1 by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow offers a rich exploration of heroism and storytelling, challenging traditional notions and celebrating the power of ordinary individuals and relatable tales. Through the use of vivid imagery and symbolism, the poem highlights the importance of stories in shaping our understanding of the past and present. The sword, the Poet, and the Student all contribute to this theme, suggesting that true heroism and meaningful storytelling can be found in the most unexpected places. The poem ultimately invites readers to reflect on the value of their own stories and the heroes they admire, encouraging a broader and more inclusive view of heroism and storytelling.