Poem Analysis - Wasted Days

Initial Impression and Tone

Wasted Days by Oscar Wilde presents a vivid and melancholic portrait of a young boy lost in his dreams, oblivious to the world around him. The poem's tone is predominantly sad and reflective, with a sense of impending doom. It begins with a delicate and almost ethereal description of the boy, but shifts to a more somber and urgent mood as it progresses, warning of the consequences of his detachment from reality. The poem's form, written in free verse, supports its introspective and ruminative tone.

Themes of Innocence and Ignorance

One of the main themes in Wasted Days is the innocence and ignorance of youth. The boy is described as not being made for this world's pain, suggesting a delicate and sheltered upbringing. His golden hair and longing eyes veiled by tears evoke a sense of purity and vulnerability. The boy's innocence is further emphasized by the pale cheeks where no kiss has left its stain, implying a lack of worldly experience. This theme is developed through the contrast between the boy's dreamy state and the harsh reality of the world around him, represented by the reapers toiling in the fields.

The Theme of Lost Opportunities

Another prominent theme is the idea of lost opportunities and the fleeting nature of time. The poem warns that the boy's dreams may be in vain, as night is approaching and in the night-time no man gathers fruit. This metaphor suggests that the boy is wasting his time and opportunities, and that he will regret his inaction later in life. The theme is reinforced by the image of the reapers toiling wearily, highlighting the contrast between the boy's idleness and the productive labor of others. The sun's crimson glow adds a sense of urgency, as if time is running out for the boy to seize the day and make the most of his life.

Symbolism of the Boy and the Fields

The boy himself serves as a powerful symbol of innocence and potential, while the fields and the reapers represent the harsh realities of life and the passage of time. The boy's golden hair and blue eyes, described as bluest water seen through mists of rain, evoke a sense of beauty and fragility, but also a certain detachment from reality. The fields, on the other hand, are wide and full of laborers, suggesting the vastness of the world and the need for hard work and productivity. The reapers, toiling wearily, symbolize the struggles and efforts required to make the most of one's life. The contrast between the boy's dreamy state and the laborers' toil highlights the theme of lost opportunities and the importance of seizing the day.

Conclusion

In Wasted Days, Oscar Wilde uses vivid imagery and symbolism to explore the themes of innocence, lost opportunities, and the passage of time. The poem serves as a cautionary tale, warning against the dangers of being too detached from reality and the importance of making the most of one's life. The boy's dreamy state and the laborers' toil highlight the contrast between idleness and productivity, urging readers to seize the day and make the most of their time. The poem's melancholic tone and urgent mood reinforce its message, making it a poignant and thought-provoking reflection on the human condition.