Poem Analysis - The Appeal

A Plea for Remembrance and Acceptance

Rudyard Kipling's "The Appeal" is a short, poignant poem that speaks of mortality and legacy. It's a plea from the speaker for peace and acceptance after death, urging the reader to remember them through their work rather than dwelling on unanswered questions. The tone is initially gentle and grateful, but shifts towards a more solemn and resigned acknowledgement of the inevitable "night." The poem's brevity and directness amplify its emotional impact.

The Brevity of Remembrance

One of the central themes of the poem is the transient nature of memory. Kipling highlights this with the phrase "the little, little span/The dead are born in mind." This suggests that remembrance is fleeting and that human attention is naturally drawn towards the living. The repetition of "little" emphasizes just how short this period of remembrance is. The poem implies that the speaker desires to be remembered, but also understands the reality of fading from memory. It acknowledges that to live on in the memory of people is a brief occurrence and seeks to prepare the reader for that inevitability.

Mortality's Shadow and the Acceptance of Death

The poem is deeply concerned with mortality, which is symbolized by "that night/Which shall be yours anon." This "night" represents death, presented not as frightening but as a universal and inevitable experience. The speaker seeks to prepare the reader for this reality by acknowledging the end. This theme of mortality is further emphasized by the speaker's desire for a peaceful passing ("Let me lie quiet"). It seems he is trying to come to terms with his own death and find solace in the hope of being remembered fondly, if fleetingly.

The Enduring Power of Work: A Legacy in Books

The most potent symbol in the poem is the "books I leave behind." These books represent the speaker's enduring legacy, his contribution to the world that will outlast his physical presence. The speaker is pleading with the reader to look to the books rather than asking questions about the person's past or life; he’s attempting to guide the reader to how he should be remembered. This is a testament to the power of art and literature to transcend mortality and provide a lasting connection between the creator and the audience. By urging the reader to "seek not to question other than/The books I leave behind," the speaker prioritizes his artistic output as his defining characteristic.

Concluding Thoughts: A Gentle Farewell

In conclusion, "The Appeal" is a moving meditation on mortality, remembrance, and the enduring power of art. It’s a gentle plea for acceptance and a thoughtful reflection on the brevity of human memory. Kipling's poem suggests that true immortality lies not in endless remembrance, but in the lasting impact of one's work, offering a poignant reminder that our legacies are often best defined by the contributions we leave behind for others to discover and appreciate. The poem’s significance is that while life is short, its impact can be enduring.