Poem Analysis - New Hampshire

Robert Frost's "New Hampshire" is a long, rambling, and conversational poem that serves as a complex portrait of a state and, by extension, of America itself. The poem meanders through anecdotes, observations, and self-deprecating humor, creating a tone that is both playful and thoughtful. While it celebrates New Hampshire's unique character, it also grapples with broader questions of identity, value, and the role of art in a commercialized world. The mood shifts from lighthearted observations to more serious reflections on the human condition and the nature of regionalism and national identity.

Historical and Biographical Considerations

Written in the early 20th century, "New Hampshire" reflects a time of rapid industrialization and urbanization in the United States. The poem can be read as a reaction against the perceived loss of traditional values and the rise of a materialistic culture. Frost, known for his pastoral settings and focus on rural life, positions New Hampshire as a counterpoint to the perceived excesses of other states, especially those associated with commerce and rapid change. The poem also coincides with the Prohibition era (Volstead Act), reflected in the anecdote of the zealot poet trying to sell him on writing a protest against the law.

Commerce vs. Character

One of the central themes in "New Hampshire" is the tension between commerce and character. Frost contrasts New Hampshire's perceived lack of ambition for commercial success with the more aggressive marketing strategies of other states. The encounters with the lady from the South, the traveler from Arkansas, and the Californian all highlight this contrast. Each of these figures is presented as someone who is overly concerned with selling something—whether it's family status, state resources, or climate. The lady, "None of my family ever worked, or had / A thing to sell," emphasizes this theme. Frost's narrator views such preoccupation with commerce as a "disgrace in man or state or nation." New Hampshire, in contrast, is depicted as a place where things are valued for their intrinsic worth rather than their market value. The "gold" that makes "engagement rings / And marriage rings" is valued differently to the "commercial quantities" in Arkansas.

The Problem of the Poet in America

Another key theme is the role of the poet in American society, particularly within the context of a culture that often prioritizes practicality and material success. Frost explores this theme through his interactions with other poets and artists. The "poet from another state" who tries to sell him on writing a protest against the Volstead Act represents the artist as a salesperson, compromising their artistic integrity for a cause or agenda. Frost also touches on the problem of writing "the Russian novel in America," suggesting that the relative lack of suffering and hardship in American life makes it difficult for American writers to achieve the same depth and emotional intensity as their European counterparts. Art thrives on a modicum of adversity, even the lack of cause for it. New Hampshire then represents a paradox: it is a place where genuine art might struggle to take root because life is "unterribly" comfortable.

Regional Identity and National Character

The poem is, on the surface, an exploration of regional identity, however, it can also be interpreted as a commentary on American national character. New Hampshire is presented as a microcosm of the United States, with its own unique history, values, and quirks. The poem contrasts New Hampshire's smallness and self-sufficiency with the bigness and ambition of other states, suggesting a tension between local and national identities. The discussion of New Hampshire's one President, "Purse," and its one Daniel Webster highlights the state's contribution to the nation while also emphasizing its limited scale. The anecdote of Easton going Democratic reveals that even the smallest place has its own political voice. The poem also questions whether a truly "sound / And sad" national literature can be built "on a foundation of well-being," implying that hardship and adversity are necessary for artistic greatness.

Recurring Images and Symbolism

Several images and symbols recur throughout the poem, contributing to its overall message. The image of mountains is particularly significant, representing both the physical landscape of New Hampshire and a metaphor for the state's aspirations. Frost's desire to "elevate the already lofty mountains" suggests a desire to improve or enhance what is already good, while also acknowledging the limitations of human ambition. The "showcase" is another recurring image, symbolizing New Hampshire's unique collection of people, places, and things. The state is presented as a museum or exhibition, offering a glimpse into a different way of life. This contrasts with the commercialism of other states, where everything is for sale. The image of the line is another one to note, it's where man leaves off and nature starts.

Conclusion

"New Hampshire" is a complex and multifaceted poem that resists easy interpretation. It is a celebration of a specific place, but it is also a meditation on broader themes of identity, value, and the role of art in society. Frost's use of anecdotes, humor, and vivid imagery creates a rich and engaging portrait of New Hampshire and its people. Ultimately, the poem suggests that true value lies not in material wealth or commercial success, but in the qualities of character, self-sufficiency, and a deep connection to the land. The poem's significance lies in its ability to capture the essence of a particular place while also raising timeless questions about what it means to be American. The poem invites us to consider what the "ideal" state and nation would be, and whether that ideal is achievable.