Poem Analysis - The Song Of The Women

A Plea for Recognition and Gratitude

Rudyard Kipling's "The Song of the Women" is a heartfelt expression of gratitude from a group of women to a benefactor, likely a woman, who has improved their lives. The poem is imbued with a tone of deep reverence and humility, shifting from a sense of desperation for their message to be heard to an almost celebratory declaration of the impact this woman has had. The overall mood is one of yearning and thanksgiving, conveyed through vivid imagery and impassioned appeals.

Acknowledging Past Suffering

The poem explores the theme of suffering and hardship endured by these women before the arrival of their benefactor. This is evident in lines like "old in grief, and very wise in tears" and "By life that ebbed with none to stanch the failing." These phrases paint a picture of a community burdened by loss, neglect, and perhaps even death. The poem acknowledges the struggles they have faced, implying a past filled with sorrow and unmet needs. This backdrop of suffering emphasizes the transformative power of the benefactor's actions and deepens their gratitude.

Love and Compassion as Transforming Forces

Love and compassion are central themes. The benefactor is described as having "dowered us with wealth of love and pity." This phrase suggests that her most significant contribution was not necessarily material wealth, but rather empathy and care. The speaker asserts, "I have no gifts but Love alone for bringing," portraying love as a powerful offering. The poem shows how even small acts of kindness can bring profound change, offering solace and hope to those who have known only hardship.

Symbolism of Wind and Light

The poem employs recurring symbols of wind and light. The wind is personified as a messenger, carrying the women's gratitude to the benefactor. It's asked to "Go forth, O wind, our message on thy wings." This use of the wind symbolizes the desire to reach someone beyond physical reach, overcoming barriers of distance and social standing. Light, on the other hand, represents hope and renewal. They acknowledge having "seen the light," and express their fear "To dim that dawning if our lady leave us." These symbols are interwoven to portray the benefactor as a bringer of hope and the wind as the vehicle for communicating the depth of their appreciation.

An Unacknowledged Sacrifice?

The poem could suggest that the benefactor made some personal sacrifices for these women. The lines "If she have fought with Death and dulled his sword; If she have given back our sick again..." imply that this person put herself at risk. This raises a question: Did the benefactor's actions come at a personal cost, making the women's expression of gratitude even more poignant? Was her personal wellbeing affected by her aid to this group?

A Legacy of Love and Remembrance

In conclusion, "The Song of the Women" is a powerful expression of gratitude and an acknowledgement of transformative love. It showcases the impact of one person's compassion on a community burdened by hardship. Through vivid imagery and heartfelt appeals, Kipling captures the profound sense of indebtedness and the desire to ensure that the benefactor's acts of kindness are never forgotten. The poem stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and compassion to illuminate even the darkest of circumstances, creating a lasting legacy of remembrance and appreciation.