Poem Analysis - The Two Locks Of Hair

Initial Impression and Tone

The poem The Two Locks of Hair by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow presents a reflective and melancholic tone, shifting between nostalgia and despair. The speaker, a youth, recounts a vivid dream of a lost wife and child, which haunts him both day and night. The poem's structure, with its narrative flow and vivid imagery, supports the speaker's emotional journey, moving from longing to acceptance and back to grief.

Themes of Loss and Longing

The primary theme of the poem is loss, specifically the loss of loved ones. The speaker's dream of a wife and child suggests a deep longing for a life that was never fully realized. The repetition of the dream and the inability to escape it highlights the enduring nature of grief. The speaker's desire to be free from the dream contrasts with his inability to let go of the memory, illustrating the complex nature of loss and longing.

Themes of Mortality and Memory

The poem also explores the theme of mortality. The speaker's dream ends with the death of his wife and child, bringing a stark reminder of the finality of loss. The locks of hair serve as tangible reminders of the deceased, symbolizing the enduring power of memory. The speaker's reaction to the locks of hair, feeling pale and wishing for death, underscores the profound impact of loss on his life. The locks of hair are a poignant symbol of the enduring presence of the past in the present, highlighting the theme of memory.

The Symbolism of the Locks of Hair

The two locks of hair are central symbols in the poem, representing the speaker's lost wife and child. The brown lock from the mother's hair and the blond lock from the child's hair serve as tangible connections to the past, embodying the speaker's memories and emotions. The speaker's reactions to the locks, feeling pale at the sight of the blond lock and wishing for death at the sight of the dark lock, illustrate the deep emotional impact of these symbols. The locks of hair are a powerful reminder of the enduring presence of the past in the present, highlighting the theme of memory and the struggle to come to terms with loss.

Conclusion

The Two Locks of Hair by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a poignant exploration of loss, longing, and memory. Through vivid imagery and symbolic elements, the poem delves into the complex emotions surrounding the loss of loved ones. The locks of hair serve as powerful symbols of the enduring presence of the past, highlighting the speaker's struggle to come to terms with his grief. The poem ultimately offers a profound insight into the human experience of loss and the enduring power of memory.