Poem Analysis - Two Look At Two

A Moment of Connection in the Wilderness

Robert Frost's "Two Look At Two" is a quiet, contemplative poem about a couple's encounter with deer in a remote, mountainous setting. The poem explores themes of connection, isolation, and the delicate balance between humanity and nature. The tone is initially subdued, almost resigned, as the couple confronts the limitations of their journey. However, the arrival of the deer brings a shift in mood, introducing a sense of wonder and culminating in a feeling of profound, reciprocal understanding.

The Unyielding Barrier and Lost Impulse

One of the primary themes in the poem is the idea of limitations and barriers. The tumbled wall, "with barbed-wire binding," serves as a physical manifestation of the obstacles that prevent the couple from progressing further on their chosen path. This barrier not only halts their physical journey but also symbolizes the limitations within themselves. The phrase "spending what onward impulse they still had" suggests a depletion of energy and motivation, highlighting the mental and emotional barriers that can be just as restrictive as physical ones.

Shared Ground, Shared Gaze

The theme of connection is intricately woven through the encounter with the deer. The repeated phrase "across the wall" emphasizes both the separation and the connection between the couple and the animals. The deer "saw them in their field, they her in hers," highlighting a shared space and perspective, despite the physical division. This mutual observation creates a sense of understanding and acceptance, suggesting that despite the differences between humans and animals, a profound connection is possible.

Nature's Reciprocal Love

The poem's final stanza introduces the idea of nature's reciprocal love. The "great wave" that washes over the couple after the deer depart symbolizes a powerful emotional experience. The image of "the earth in one unlooked-for favour / Had made them certain earth returned their love" suggests a profound sense of belonging and acceptance. This feeling transcends the initial sense of isolation and limitation, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance in the face of the vast and indifferent natural world. The deer, in their calm and unconcerned observation, act as intermediaries, conveying a silent message of acceptance and connection.

Clouded Eyes, Unclouded Truths: A Question of Perspective

The image of the doe's "clouded eyes" is particularly striking. While the clouds might suggest a lack of clarity, paradoxically, the couple sees "no fear there." This could be interpreted in several ways. Perhaps the doe's clouded vision represents a more intuitive, less judgmental way of seeing the world. She sees the couple without fear because she recognizes their shared existence within the same ecosystem. Or, it could be that the "clouded eyes" symbolize the limited human perception, and the question becomes: are the humans or the deer truly seeing clearly? This ambiguity adds another layer of complexity to the poem's exploration of connection and understanding. What truths do we miss because of our own "clouded eyes?"

A Profound Exchange, A Lasting Impact

In conclusion, "Two Look At Two" is a powerful meditation on connection, limitation, and the human relationship with the natural world. Through vivid imagery and carefully chosen words, Frost creates a scene of profound exchange between the couple and the deer. The poem suggests that even in the face of barriers and limitations, moments of genuine connection are possible, and that these moments can leave a lasting impact, offering a sense of belonging and reciprocal understanding within the larger context of the earth's embrace.