Poem Analysis - Ultima Thule The Poet And His Songs

Initial Impression and Tone

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's "Ultima Thule: The Poet And His Songs" presents a mystical and introspective exploration of the poetic process. The poem's tone is contemplative and somewhat reverent, reflecting on the mysterious origins of poetic inspiration. There is a sense of awe and wonder as the poet describes the inexplicable arrival of his songs, shifting from a serene and reflective mood to a more urgent and commanding one as the poem progresses.

Themes of Inspiration and Divine Guidance

The primary theme of the poem is the mysterious and divine nature of poetic inspiration. Longfellow uses natural phenomena to illustrate the sudden and unpredictable arrival of his songs. The poet compares the coming of his songs to the arrival of birds in spring, stars at evening, and rain from clouds, all of which are natural and inevitable yet mysterious. This imagery underscores the idea that inspiration is a force beyond the poet's control, coming from a realm of the unknown. The poet's songs are described as "all hitherward blown from the misty realm, that belongs to the vast Unknown," emphasizing the mystical and otherworldly source of his creativity.

Another significant theme is the duality of ownership and identity. The poet acknowledges that his songs are both his and not his, suggesting a sense of detachment from his own creations. This duality is further emphasized in the lines "His, and not his, are the lays he sings; and their fame is his, and not his," highlighting the paradoxical nature of artistic creation. The poet's identity is intertwined with his songs, yet he remains separate from them, indicating a complex relationship between the artist and their work.

The theme of divine guidance is also prominent. The poet is pursued by voices that command him to write, suggesting a higher power or divine inspiration guiding his actions. The phrase "And he listens, and needs must obey, when the Angel says: 'Write!'" underscores the idea that the poet is a vessel for a greater force, compelled to create by an external, divine influence. This theme adds a layer of spiritual depth to the poem, portraying the poetic process as a sacred and divine calling.

Recurring Symbols and Imagery

The poem is rich with natural imagery that symbolizes the unpredictable and mysterious nature of inspiration. The birds coming in spring, stars appearing at evening, and rain falling from clouds all represent the sudden and inexplicable arrival of poetic ideas. These natural phenomena are familiar yet enigmatic, mirroring the poet's experience of inspiration. The use of natural imagery also connects the poetic process to the broader cycles of life and nature, suggesting a harmonious and interconnected universe.

The "misty realm" from which the poet's songs come is a powerful symbol of the unknown and the mystical. This realm represents the source of all creativity and inspiration, a place beyond the poet's comprehension and control. The misty realm is both alluring and intimidating, embodying the mystery and wonder of the creative process. The poet's songs are described as being "blown" from this realm, suggesting a gentle yet forceful influence that guides his work.

The "Angel" that commands the poet to write is a symbol of divine guidance and authority. The Angel represents the higher power that compels the poet to create, embodying the idea that artistic inspiration is a sacred and divine gift. The Angel's command is absolute and unquestionable, highlighting the poet's role as a vessel for a greater force. This symbol adds a layer of spiritual significance to the poem, portraying the poetic process as a divine calling.

Conclusion

"Ultima Thule: The Poet And His Songs" offers a profound meditation on the nature of poetic inspiration and the divine guidance that compels the poet to create. Through vivid natural imagery and powerful symbols, Longfellow explores the mysterious and otherworldly origins of his songs, highlighting the paradoxical relationship between the artist and their work. The poem ultimately underscores the sacred and divine nature of the creative process, portraying the poet as a vessel for a higher power. This exploration of inspiration and divine guidance invites readers to reflect on the mystical and awe-inspiring aspects of artistic creation, reminding us of the profound and enigmatic forces that guide the poet's hand.