Poem Analysis - The Days Work

Introduction: A Tapestry of Duty and Disillusionment

Rudyard Kipling's "The Day's Work" is a collection of short, evocative poems that, while diverse in subject, resonate with a shared undercurrent of duty, sacrifice, and the often-harsh realities of life. The poem moves from a celebration of selfless service to a poignant reflection on the forgotten soldiers and the burden of solitary vigilance. There is a notable shift from the initial, almost hymn-like tone of dedication to a more somber and introspective mood in the latter sections. The overall impression is one of acknowledging the price of service and the often-unacknowledged individuals who bear its weight.

The Glorification of Selfless Service

The opening stanza, attributed to "The Ship that Found Herself," establishes a key theme of selfless service and finding joy in duty. The lines "We now, held in captivity, / Spring to our bondage nor grieve" suggest a willing acceptance of responsibility, even if it feels restrictive. The poem then directly states "See now, how it is blesseder, / Brothers, to give than receive!" reinforcing the idea that true fulfillment lies in serving others. This sentiment is further emphasized by the call to "Keep trust, wherefore we were made, / Paying the debt that we owe," framing life itself as an obligation to be fulfilled. The "clean thrust, and the shear of the blade" can be interpreted as the sharp, decisive actions required to fulfill that duty, ultimately leading to a desired, perhaps even predestined, end.

The Forgotten Cost of Conflict

The second stanza, labeled "Collected," abruptly shifts the focus to the grim realities of war. The lines "All the world over, nursing their scars, / Sit the old fighting-men broke in the wars" paint a picture of marginalized and suffering veterans. Kipling highlights their disillusionment through the phrase "surly and grim / Mocking the lilt of the conquerors' hymn." The contrast between the triumphant music and the veterans' bitterness suggests that the glory of victory often overshadows the sacrifices made by individual soldiers. The lines "Dust of the battle o'erwhelmed them and hid. / Fame never found them for aught that they did" speak to the anonymity and lack of recognition experienced by many who serve, highlighting a stark contrast to the celebrated "Sons of the Laurel" who achieve fame and glory.

Isolation and the Burden of Knowledge

The final stanza presents a stark image of isolation and a longing for simpler understanding. The "unschooled, alone" watchman standing "Twixt hostile earth and sky" embodies the loneliness of duty. The line "The mottled lizard 'neath the stone / Is wiser here than I" highlights the watchman's feeling of inadequacy and the disconnect between human intellect and instinctual knowledge. The final lines, "What stir across the haze of heat? / What omen down the wind? / The buck that break before my feet-- / They know, but I am blind!" suggests a profound frustration at being unable to perceive the subtle signs of danger that nature readily reveals. The watchman is burdened with the responsibility of vigilance but lacks the intuitive awareness that even animals possess.

Symbols of Sacrifice and Vigilance

Several potent symbols recur throughout the poem. The "blade" symbolizes the decisive action required for duty, but also hints at the potential for violence and destruction. The "scars" of the fighting men represent the physical and emotional wounds inflicted by conflict, serving as a constant reminder of their sacrifice. The "laurel" represents fame and victory, highlighting the disparity between those who are celebrated and those who are forgotten. The "lizard" serves as a symbol of primal knowledge and instinct, contrasting with the human burden of conscious thought and responsibility. The watchman's "blindness" isn't literal but rather signifies a lack of innate understanding, emphasizing the heavy weight of his lonely vigil.

Conclusion: Acknowledging the Multifaceted Nature of Service

"The Day's Work" is not a simple glorification of duty but rather a complex exploration of its various facets. The poem acknowledges the fulfillment that can be found in selfless service, while simultaneously recognizing the sacrifices made, the disillusionment experienced, and the isolation often endured. The juxtaposition of triumphant verses with somber reflections creates a nuanced portrayal of the human condition within the context of duty and responsibility. Ultimately, Kipling's poem serves as a reminder to acknowledge and appreciate the diverse individuals who contribute to the "day's work," from the celebrated heroes to the forgotten soldiers and the solitary watchmen.