Poem Analysis - Two Months

Introduction: A Tale of Two Seasons

Rudyard Kipling's "Two Months" is a vivid depiction of the harsh realities of a changing climate, specifically contrasting the oppressive heat of June with the hopeful promise of September. The poem unfolds as a narrative of suffering and eventual relief, painting a picture of a land and its people burdened by extreme weather. The tone shifts dramatically from despair and torment in the first stanza to anticipation and hope in the second, reflecting the cyclical nature of the seasons and the human experience. It reads like a small story with a clear beginning and end.

Theme 1: The Tyranny of Nature

One of the central themes is the tyranny of nature and its power over human existence. In June, nature is portrayed as a cruel oppressor. The "sullen Sun" strikes down, the "tortured Town" suffers, and even the moon "mocks" with its light. The personification of nature as a malevolent force ("Day stalks, a tyrant with a flaming sword!") highlights the vulnerability of humans in the face of overwhelming environmental conditions. The use of words like "tortured," "sullen," and "tyrant" emphasizes the oppressive and inescapable nature of the heat, making it clear that humanity is at its mercy. Nature is not a benevolent provider here, but a powerful adversary.

Theme 2: Hope and Renewal

In stark contrast, the September stanza introduces the theme of hope and renewal. The shift is immediate and palpable. "A murmur in the trees, a ripple on the tank" signifies a return to life and tranquility. The "voice of prophecy" carried on the breeze suggests a benevolent force at work, promising change. The imagery of the sun, though still present, is diminished; it "strove to parch anew the heedless land, / All impotently." This indicates a weakening of the oppressive power, replaced by the promise of "coming coolness." The personification of Winter as a savior offering help when "men's need is sorest" solidifies the theme of hope emerging from hardship. This second part of the poem emphasizes the cyclical nature of life and the promise of renewal even after periods of intense suffering.

Theme 3: Resistance and Acceptance

The poem explores a subtle theme of resistance and acceptance. In June, there is a sense of unyielding suffering, an almost passive endurance of the heat. The "uncomplaining trees" are a symbol of this quiet resistance. September brings an active resistance, with the "rebel year" in "mutiny against a furious sky," signaling a shift from passive suffering to active change. The acceptance comes with Winter's pronouncement: "It is well! Hot Summer dies." This line suggests a resignation to the natural cycle, acknowledging that hardship is temporary and necessary for renewal. The falling lotus petals symbolize the end of an era, gracefully accepting the inevitable change brought about by the approaching winter.

Symbolism of Light and Darkness

The contrasting imagery of light and darkness serves as a crucial symbol throughout the poem. In June, the harsh, unforgiving light of the sun and the mocking "watery light" of the moon represent the oppressive nature of the heat and the lack of relief. The darkness of "Night falls heavy as remembered sin" evokes a sense of despair and hopelessness. In September, the light is softened. The sun's attempts to "parch anew" are "impotent," and the overall feeling is one of diminishing power, replaced by the promise of cooling temperatures and relief. The shift in light symbolizes the changing fortunes and the transition from suffering to hope.

Conclusion: A Cycle of Suffering and Relief

"Two Months" is more than just a descriptive poem; it's a reflection on the cyclical nature of life, highlighting the contrasting experiences of suffering and relief. The poem reveals the power of nature, not only to inflict hardship but also to offer solace and renewal. The shift from the oppressive imagery of June to the hopeful anticipation of September underscores the idea that even in the face of great adversity, hope and change are always possible. The poem’s message is one of enduring resilience and the acceptance of life's inevitable cycles.