Poem Analysis - Morning Song In The Jungle

Introduction: A Retreat into Shadow

Rudyard Kipling's "Morning Song In The Jungle" is a vibrant depiction of the transition from night to day in a jungle environment, as seen through the eyes of its animal inhabitants. The poem evokes a sense of urgency and retreat, tinged with both respect for the natural order and a hint of anxiety about the arrival of human activity. The tone begins with a hushed anticipation and shifts to a more urgent call to concealment as the sun rises. The poem ultimately celebrates the "Jungle Law" and the wisdom of seeking shelter in the face of the encroaching day.

The Dominance of Nature: A Theme of Shifting Power

One of the poem's central themes is the shifting power dynamic between night and day, and the corresponding vulnerability of the jungle creatures. During the night, the jungle is their domain, but as the "traitor Dark gives up each mark," the animals must retreat. This is evident in lines like "Now horn and pelt our peoples melt/ In covert to abide," showcasing their instinct to hide as dawn breaks. The poem suggests that while the animals are powerful in their own realm, they are subject to the overarching authority of the sun and, by extension, the coming of man. The poem suggests nature's power is cyclical, but also that darkness is a temporary refuge, not a permanent state.

The Jungle Law: A Code of Conduct

The "Jungle Law" is a crucial theme, representing the established order and the principles of survival within the animal kingdom. The repeated call, "Good rest to all/ That keep the Jungle Law!" is a refrain that emphasizes the importance of adhering to these unwritten rules. The law is not explicitly defined, but the poem implies it involves respecting the rhythms of nature, knowing when to hunt and when to hide, and understanding the dangers that both darkness and light can bring. The animals' instinctive retreat into the shadows showcases their understanding and acceptance of this law. They know when to "melt in covert to abide," and how to respect the day belonging to men.

The Symbolism of Light and Shadow: A Dichotomy of Safety

Light and shadow serve as powerful symbols throughout the poem, representing safety and vulnerability. The initial lines, "One moment past our bodies cast/ No shadow on the plain; Now clear and black they stride our track," highlight the increasing visibility and exposure that comes with the rising sun. The shadows, initially absent, become stark reminders of the animals' presence and vulnerability. The "red dawn" is "stripped and dread," a vivid image suggesting a hostile and unforgiving daylight. The light reveals "each mark/ Of stretched or hooded claw," making the animals susceptible to being tracked. The bamboo “creaking… the warning whispers” because of the rising sun adds another layer of the light symbolism, acting as the first signal that the darkness is over and the animals must retreat.

The Encroachment of Man: A Looming Presence

The poem subtly introduces the theme of human encroachment upon the natural world. While humans are not physically present, their influence is felt through the imagery of "Man's oxen strain,/ That draw the new-yoked plough" and the cry of the "wild duck: 'The Day--the Day to Man!'" This suggests that the daylight hours are associated with human activity and domination. The animals' retreat is not merely from the light itself, but also from the potential danger that comes with human presence. The mention of the "talao" (a type of pond or lake) being lit by the dawn further emphasizes the taming or viewing of the wilder landscapes.

Conclusion: Harmony and Acceptance

In conclusion, "Morning Song In The Jungle" is a poignant exploration of the intricate relationship between the natural world and the encroaching influence of humanity. The poem's success lies in its vivid imagery and its ability to convey the emotions of the jungle's inhabitants as they navigate the shifting landscape of light and shadow. Ultimately, the poem celebrates the wisdom of adhering to the "Jungle Law," a testament to the importance of respecting the natural order and finding harmony within a world that is constantly changing. This harmony involves both acknowledging one's place in the power structure and accepting the need to retreat from forces more powerful than one's self.