Poem Analysis - Tegners Drapa

Initial Impression and Tone

Tegner's Drapa by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poignant and reflective poem that mourns the passing of old gods and celebrates the rise of new ideals. The poem begins with a somber and mournful tone, evoking a sense of loss and despair. However, as it progresses, the mood shifts towards hope and renewal, reflecting a transition from old beliefs to new ones. The poem's narrative structure, moving from lament to celebration, supports its thematic exploration of change and rebirth.

Themes of Mortality and Transition

The poem explores the theme of mortality through the death of Balder, the god of the summer sun. Balder's death is described in vivid and melancholic terms, with the repetition of the phrase "Balder the Beautiful is dead, is dead!" emphasizing the finality and sadness of his passing. This theme of mortality is not just about the end of life but also about the end of an era, symbolizing the transition from old pagan beliefs to new Christian ideals. The poem suggests that the old gods must perish to make way for a new land of song and love.

Themes of Love and Renewal

The theme of love is introduced towards the end of the poem, contrasting with the earlier themes of death and despair. The poem calls for a new song of love, suggesting that love is a powerful force that can overcome the old laws of force and violence. The imagery of a new land rising from the sea of time, where young bards sing songs of love, symbolizes the renewal and rebirth that comes with embracing new ideals. The poem urges the bards to build a fairer world, fed by the morning dew, symbolizing purity and new beginnings.

Themes of Conflict and Resolution

The poem also explores the theme of conflict and resolution, particularly the conflict between old pagan beliefs and new Christian ideals. The old gods, represented by Thor, the thunderer, are depicted as violent and threatening, while the new ideals, represented by Christ, are meek and loving. The poem calls for a resolution of this conflict, urging the bards to sing no more of the old days of blood and violence, but to preserve the freedom and sing songs of love. This theme of conflict and resolution is central to the poem's message of transition and renewal.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and vivid imagery. The mistletoe, which causes Balder's death, symbolizes the frailty and unpredictability of life. Despite all the protections, it is the seemingly harmless mistletoe that brings about Balder's downfall. The burning ship, which carries Balder to his final resting place, symbolizes the end of an era and the transition to a new one. The sea of time, from which a new land of song rises, symbolizes the passage of time and the inevitability of change. The young bards, who sing songs of love, symbolize the hope and renewal that comes with embracing new ideals.

Conclusion

Tegner's Drapa by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a powerful exploration of mortality, transition, and renewal. Through vivid imagery and rich symbolism, the poem mourns the passing of old gods and celebrates the rise of new ideals. The poem's shift from a somber tone to one of hope and renewal reflects its central message of change and rebirth. The poem urges us to embrace new ideals of love and peace, and to build a fairer world, fed by the morning dew. In doing so, it offers a profound insight into the human experience of loss, transition, and renewal.