Poem Analysis - The Call

Introduction: A Call to Something Greater

Lucy Maud Montgomery's "The Call" is a compelling narrative poem that delves into the internal conflict between personal love and spiritual duty. The poem recounts a pivotal moment in the life of one of Jesus's disciples, likely Peter, as he grapples with the decision to abandon his life and follow Christ. The tone initially presents a loving domestic scene, quickly evolving into awe and reverence, culminating in a resolute acceptance of a higher calling. The poem explores the transformative power of faith and the sacrifices it demands, leaving the reader to contemplate the weight of such a decision.

Historical and Biographical Context

While not overtly evident in the poem's content, understanding Lucy Maud Montgomery's own life provides a subtle layer of interpretation. Montgomery, best known for "Anne of Green Gables," was deeply religious and often explored themes of faith and duty in her works. Her own personal struggles with balancing societal expectations and individual desires might resonate with the speaker's internal conflict in the poem. The strong sense of place and the natural imagery are characteristic of Montgomery's writing, reflecting her deep connection to the Canadian landscape, although the poem itself is set in Galilee.

Themes: Love, Duty, and Transformation

Three primary themes intertwine within "The Call": earthly love, spiritual duty, and personal transformation. The speaker's initial attachment to his "bride" and the "tender arms and lips" represents the allure of earthly love and domestic tranquility. However, this is directly contrasted with the overwhelming call to spiritual duty, embodied by the figure of Christ. The phrase "I must leave all I hold most dear to answer the call" highlights the sacrifice demanded by this higher purpose. Ultimately, the poem chronicles the speaker's profound transformation from a simple fisherman to a disciple, driven by an irresistible spiritual awakening. The final lines, "I must follow the Nazarene's call!" emphasize his unwavering commitment to this new path.

Symbolism: Light, Water, and the "Nazarene"

Several key symbols enhance the poem's meaning. Light, in its various forms, represents divine presence and spiritual enlightenment. The "glowing star" associated with his beloved suggests her own inner light and beauty, yet it pales in comparison to the "radiance of the skies" surrounding Christ. Water, particularly the "waters of Galilee," symbolizes purity, renewal, and the potential for transformation, referencing the baptismal context of spiritual rebirth. The term "Nazarene" itself becomes symbolic, representing not just Jesus's geographical origin but also His humble beginnings and the unconventional nature of His teachings. The speaker’s devotion to someone from such humble beginnings indicates the magnitude of his devotion to the spiritual realm over the material world.

Imagery: A Vision of Divine Grace

Montgomery employs vivid imagery to depict both the speaker's former life and the transformative encounter with Christ. The description of Galilee—"calm blue northern sky," "gleaming crest of old Hermon," "east...smit with flame"—creates a serene and idyllic backdrop. This contrasts with the intense and almost blinding imagery associated with Christ: "radiance of the skies," "long, fair hair / Wreathed it as with a crown of light," and "pale and kingly face." This use of contrasting imagery effectively conveys the magnitude of the spiritual experience and its profound impact on the speaker's perception of the world.

A Resolute Conclusion: Embracing the Unknown

"The Call" is a powerful exploration of the conflict between personal desires and spiritual obligation. Through compelling imagery, symbolic language, and a resolute tone, Montgomery portrays the transformative power of faith and the profound sacrifices it may require. The poem leaves the reader with a sense of awe at the speaker's unwavering commitment, prompting reflection on the nature of faith, duty, and the choices that define our lives. The speaker’s choice, even when faced with the grief of his loved one, speaks to the all-encompassing nature of spiritual devotion and the acceptance of an unknown future guided by faith. The last line demonstrates that he isn’t just going to follow the “Nazarene”, he must follow him, regardless of the consequences.