Poem Analysis - The Gulls

A Seaside Day in Verse

Lucy Maud Montgomery's "The Gulls" is a serene and evocative poem that paints a vivid picture of a day in the life of gulls, reflecting the natural rhythm of the sea. The poem's tone is predominantly peaceful and observant, transitioning from a joyful awakening to a tranquil slumber. Through carefully crafted imagery and a keen eye for detail, Montgomery captures the essence of the coastal environment and the gulls' integral role within it. The poem offers a glimpse into the beauty and cyclical nature of the natural world.

Gulls, Time, and Nature's Cycle

One of the main themes of "The Gulls" is the cyclical nature of time and the corresponding changes in the natural world. Each stanza represents a distinct time of day – morning, noon, and night – and the gulls' activities are directly linked to these temporal shifts. In the first stanza, the gulls are "glad-hearted" and "awake" as the sun rises, symbolizing a fresh start and energetic activity. The second stanza depicts a quiet midday, with the gulls "away" where the "wild winds are at play," reflecting a time of independence and freedom. Finally, the third stanza portrays the gulls returning "homeward" to "slumberous calm" as night falls, indicating rest and completion. This cyclical structure underscores the predictable and comforting rhythm of nature.

Freedom and Confinement

The poem also explores the theme of freedom, contrasting it with a subtle sense of confinement. In the second stanza, the "strong-sweeping pinion" is absent near the "tame fishing-boats," suggesting a restriction in movement and activity. This highlights the difference between the gulls' natural inclination for free flight and the constraints imposed by human presence. The "blue deserts of sea" where the "wild winds are at play" represent the ultimate freedom for the gulls, a place where their "spirits" can soar without limitations. The idea of confinement, though understated, adds depth to the theme of freedom, emphasizing its importance for the gulls.

The Allure of Home

A third significant theme is the importance of home and belonging. While the gulls spend their day exploring the "blue deserts of sea," they ultimately return "homeward together at twilight." This return is not portrayed as a necessity but rather as a natural and comforting conclusion to their day. The image of them "drowsily huddled on headland and rock" suggests a sense of security and companionship. The phrase "back to their own" is also critical, suggesting a deeply rooted connection to the land and each other. The poem emphasizes that even the most adventurous spirits find solace and contentment in returning to their home and community.

Imagery: Painting a Picture of Gulls and the Sea

The poem is rich in vivid imagery that brings the coastal landscape to life. The "mist-kirtled east," the "heaven with silver is fleeced," and the "sea-dusk of purple and gold" are all striking visual descriptions that evoke the beauty of the seascape at different times of day. The gulls themselves are also rendered with evocative imagery, from their "uplifting of wings" at dawn to their "drowsily huddled" state at night. The contrast between the "long ripples break" and the "slumberous calm on the ocean and shore" further enhances the reader's sensory experience, creating a dynamic and engaging portrayal of the coastal environment. This imagery acts as a window into the gulls' world, allowing the reader to understand their place in nature.

Conclusion: Finding Peace in the Natural World

"The Gulls" is a beautiful and contemplative poem that captures the essence of a day in the life of these coastal birds. Through its exploration of time, freedom, and belonging, the poem offers a broader meditation on the rhythms of nature and the importance of finding one's place within it. Montgomery's use of vivid imagery and carefully chosen language creates a lasting impression, inviting the reader to appreciate the simple beauty and inherent harmony of the natural world. The poem ultimately suggests that true contentment lies in embracing the cyclical nature of life and finding solace in the embrace of home.