Poem Analysis - Sweet Sweet Is The Greeting Of Eyes

A Celebration of Reunion

John Keats's "Sweet, Sweet Is The Greeting Of Eyes" is a warm and optimistic poem that celebrates the joy of reunion after a period of separation. The poem maintains a consistently positive tone, focusing on the sensory pleasures and emotional intensity of meeting loved ones again. It evokes a sense of relief and happiness, painting a picture of a world where distances are overcome and relationships are rekindled. The overall impression is one of heartfelt welcome and the reaffirmation of bonds.

Themes of Reunion and Renewal

The central theme of the poem is undoubtedly reunion. Keats emphasizes the sweetness of seeing loved ones after a long absence, highlighting the sensory experiences that accompany such meetings: "Sweet, sweet is the greeting of eyes," and "sweet is the voice in its greeting." This theme is further developed through the image of traveling "over sea and o’er land," suggesting the lengths to which people will go to reconnect. Coupled with reunion is the theme of renewal. The line "Where furrows are new to the plough" can be interpreted as a symbol of fresh starts and new beginnings that often accompany reunions, implying that relationships are revitalized and strengthened by the time spent apart.

Sensory Imagery and Emotional Intensity

Keats utilizes vivid sensory imagery to convey the emotional intensity of reunion. The "greeting of eyes" and the "voice in its greeting" appeal to sight and sound, creating a multi-sensory experience for the reader. The warmth and earnestness are heightened through the descriptions of physical touch: "Warm the nerve of a welcoming hand, / And earnest a kiss on the brow." These images emphasize the physical manifestation of affection and the genuine emotion present in the act of reuniting. The poem conveys a strong feeling of relief from the pain of parting.

The Symbolism of "New Furrows"

The image of "furrows are new to the plough" is a particularly potent symbol. On one level, it evokes the image of a fertile field, suggesting a promise of growth and abundance. Metaphorically, the "new furrows" can represent the fresh start that reunion provides. It implies that the relationship, like a field that has been plowed, is now ready for new experiences and renewed growth. It suggests the opportunity to cultivate deeper connections and create new memories together. Could the new furrows also hint at the future of the relationship or individuals involved?

A Lasting Impression of Joy

In conclusion, "Sweet, Sweet Is The Greeting Of Eyes" is a short but powerful poem that celebrates the simple yet profound joy of reunion. Through its use of sensory imagery and symbolic language, Keats conveys the emotional intensity of meeting loved ones after a long absence. The poem suggests that distance can strengthen bonds, and that the act of reuniting offers a chance for renewal and growth. Ultimately, the poem leaves the reader with a feeling of warmth, hope, and appreciation for the connections that bind us together.