Poem Analysis - To J W

Initial Impression and Tone

Ralph Waldo Emerson's "To J.W." presents a reflective and somewhat somber tone, urging the reader to avoid dwelling on the past and to focus on the present. The poem begins with a repetitive phrase, "Set not thy foot on graves," which sets a contemplative and cautionary mood. The tone shifts slightly from a warning to a more encouraging and optimistic outlook by the end, suggesting a journey from introspection to action.

Themes of Mortality and Reflection

The poem explores the theme of mortality through the repeated imagery of graves and the dead. The speaker advises against "unwinding the shroud" and "stripping the dead" of their ornaments, suggesting a respect for the past and a warning against dwelling on it. This theme is developed through the use of vivid imagery, such as "the shroud," "myrrh, and wine, and rings," and "trophies buried." These images evoke a sense of finality and the inevitability of death, urging the reader to move forward rather than dwell on what has passed.

The Importance of Living in the Present

Another prominent theme is the importance of living in the present and pursuing one's own goals. The speaker advises, "Life is too short to waste / The critic bite or cynic bark, / Quarrel, or reprimand." This suggests a focus on personal growth and the pursuit of one's own aims rather than getting caught up in negativity or criticism. The final lines, "Up! mind thine own aim, and / God speed the mark," emphasize the importance of taking action and striving towards one's goals, reinforcing the theme of living fully in the present.

Symbolism of Graves and the Dead

The recurring symbol of graves and the dead serves as a reminder of the transience of life and the inevitability of death. The speaker's warning against "setting foot on graves" and "unwinding the shroud" can be interpreted as a metaphor for avoiding the past and the mistakes of others. The "sad ornament" and "trophies buried" represent the achievements and failures of the past, which the speaker advises against dwelling on. Instead, the reader is encouraged to seek these achievements in the present, as suggested by the lines, "Go get them where he earned them when alive, / As resolutely dig or dive."

Conclusion and Final Insight

In summary, "To J.W." by Ralph Waldo Emerson uses vivid imagery and symbolic language to explore themes of mortality, reflection, and the importance of living in the present. The poem's repetitive structure and cautionary tone serve to emphasize the message of moving forward and pursuing one's own goals. The final lines, "Up! mind thine own aim, and / God speed the mark," encapsulate the poem's encouragement to take action and strive towards personal growth, offering a final insight into the significance of living fully and purposefully.