Poem Analysis - The Cumberland

Initial Impression and Tone

The Cumberland by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a vivid and dramatic narrative poem that recounts the sinking of the USS Cumberland during the American Civil War. The poem's tone is initially calm and observational, shifting to one of tension and conflict as the battle unfolds, and finally to a tone of solemn reflection and hope. Emerson's use of vivid imagery and strong language effectively conveys the intensity of the battle and the bravery of the crew.

Historical and Authorial Context

Ralph Waldo Emerson was a prominent American essayist, lecturer, and poet, known for his transcendentalist philosophy. The Cumberland was written in response to the sinking of the USS Cumberland by the CSS Virginia (formerly the Merrimack) during the Battle of Hampton Roads in 1862. This battle was a significant event in the early years of the American Civil War, marking the first encounter between ironclad warships. Emerson's poem reflects the patriotic fervor and national pride of the time, as well as the technological and military changes that were transforming warfare.

Themes of Bravery and Sacrifice

The poem explores the theme of bravery and sacrifice through the actions and words of the crew of the Cumberland. The crew's defiance in the face of certain defeat is highlighted in the lines "It is better to sink than to yield!" and "We are not idle, but send her straight Defiance back in a full broadside!" The crew's bravery is further emphasized by their refusal to strike their flag, a symbol of their nation and their resolve. This theme is developed through the use of strong, active verbs and vivid imagery, such as the "terrible death" and the "monster's hide," which emphasize the intensity of the battle and the crew's courage.

Themes of Mortality and Loss

The theme of mortality and loss is present throughout the poem, from the initial sighting of the enemy ship to the final sinking of the Cumberland. The poem's use of imagery related to death and destruction, such as the "terrible death" and the "sudden shudder of death," emphasizes the finality and tragedy of the crew's sacrifice. The poem also explores the theme of loss through the image of the flag, which is "rent in twain" but will be "one again, And without a seam." This image suggests a sense of hope and renewal, even in the face of loss and defeat.

Themes of Unity and National Pride

The poem also explores the theme of unity and national pride, particularly in the final stanzas. The image of the flag, which is "rent in twain" but will be "one again," suggests a sense of national unity and resilience. The poem's final lines, "Ho! brave hearts that went down in the seas! Ye are at peace in the troubled stream; Ho! brave land! with hearts like these, Thy flag, that is rent in twain, Shall be one again, And without a seam!" emphasize the idea of national pride and the enduring legacy of the crew's sacrifice. This theme is developed through the use of patriotic language and imagery, as well as the poem's hopeful and inspiring tone.

Symbolism and Imagery

The poem is rich in symbolism and vivid imagery, which contribute to its overall message and emotional impact. The enemy ship is described as a "floating fort" and a "monster," emphasizing its power and threat. The Cumberland, on the other hand, is described as having "ribs of oak," suggesting strength and resilience. The flag is a powerful symbol of national pride and unity, and its image of being "rent in twain" but ultimately being "one again" suggests a sense of hope and renewal. The use of natural imagery, such as the "feather of snow-white smoke" and the "sun rose over the bay," also contributes to the poem's emotional impact, emphasizing the beauty and tranquility of the natural world in contrast to the violence and destruction of the battle.

Conclusion

The Cumberland is a powerful and moving poem that explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, mortality, and national pride. Through its vivid imagery, strong language, and use of symbolism, the poem effectively conveys the intensity of the battle and the enduring legacy of the crew's sacrifice. The poem's hopeful and inspiring tone, as well as its exploration of unity and renewal, make it a significant and enduring work of American literature. The poem serves as a reminder of the bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in the Civil War, as well as the enduring power of national pride and unity.