Poem Analysis - The Death Of The Hired Man

Robert Frost's "The Death Of The Hired Man" is a poignant exploration of duty, compassion, and the meaning of home. The poem unfolds through a conversation between a husband and wife, Warren and Mary, as they grapple with the return of Silas, an aging hired man. The tone is initially tense, filled with Warren's resentment and Mary's gentle pleading, but gradually shifts to a more somber and reflective mood as the reality of Silas's condition becomes apparent. The poem uses simple language and natural imagery to create a deeply human and emotionally resonant experience.

The Shifting Sands of Responsibility

One of the central themes in the poem is responsibility. Warren feels a sense of resentment towards Silas, viewing him as unreliable and ultimately unproductive. He argues that he has no obligation to take Silas back, especially given his past behavior: "But I’ll not have the fellow back," he asserts. Mary, on the other hand, embodies a more compassionate view of responsibility. She believes that they have a moral obligation to care for Silas in his time of need, highlighting his vulnerability and desperation. This tension between Warren's practical considerations and Mary's empathetic response forms the core of the poem's exploration of duty.

Defining Home: A Place of Obligation or Unconditional Acceptance?

The poem delves into the complex meaning of "home." Warren defines home as "the place where, when you have to go there, They have to take you in." This definition suggests a sense of obligation and perhaps even a reluctant acceptance. Mary counters with a more idealistic view, suggesting that home is "Something you somehow haven’t to deserve." This implies a place of unconditional love and acceptance, regardless of merit or contribution. The contrast between these definitions underscores the poem's exploration of what it truly means to belong and where one can find solace and refuge.

The Weight of Lost Potential and Unrealized Dreams

The theme of mortality is interwoven with Silas's character. He is presented as a broken and worn-out figure, nearing the end of his life. His obsession with teaching Harold Wilson how to load hay perfectly symbolizes his yearning for purpose and his desire to leave a lasting legacy. This unfulfilled desire highlights the transient nature of life and the regret that can accompany the realization of one's limitations. Silas’s decline is further emphasized by Mary’s observation of “how much he’s broken,” directly linking his physical state with the overarching theme of mortality.

Symbolic Shadows and Fading Light

The poem employs several vivid images that contribute to its overall message. The falling moon, "Dragging the whole sky with it to the hills," can be interpreted as a symbol of decline and the approaching darkness of death. Mary's gesture of spreading her apron to catch the moonlight evokes a sense of protection and nurturing, highlighting her compassionate nature. The "harp-like morning-glory strings" suggest a delicate and fragile beauty, symbolizing the ephemeral nature of life and the tenderness that Mary feels for Silas. The small sailing cloud that hits the moon may symbolize the inevitable approach of death and the overshadowing of hope.

A Legacy of Compassion

In conclusion, "The Death Of The Hired Man" is a powerful poem that explores the complexities of human relationships, duty, and the search for meaning in life. Through the contrasting perspectives of Warren and Mary, Frost invites us to consider the true meaning of home and the importance of compassion in the face of mortality. The poem’s enduring significance lies in its ability to evoke empathy and prompt reflection on our own responsibilities to those in need, urging us to consider whether our definitions of "home" and "belonging" are truly inclusive and compassionate.