Poem Analysis - Come Now Sing Me The Song Our Mother

Yearning for Mother and Home: An Overview

Sergei Yesenin's "Come Now, Sing Me The Song Our Mother" is a deeply nostalgic and evocative poem that centers on the power of memory and the longing for a lost past. The poem unfolds as a plea for comfort and connection through a shared song, a conduit to the speaker's childhood and his mother's love. The tone is initially plaintive, tinged with a sense of weariness and perhaps even a hint of pain, but it gradually shifts towards a brighter, more appreciative remembrance as the song progresses. This transformation showcases the healing power of memory and art.

Echoes of the Russian Landscape and Identity

While direct historical context isn't overtly present within the poem itself, Yesenin's deep connection to the Russian countryside and his often turbulent personal life are relevant to understanding the poem's emotional core. As a prominent "peasant poet," Yesenin frequently drew inspiration from rural life and the traditional values associated with it. This poem reflects that sensibility through its imagery and themes.

The Central Themes: Memory, Love, and Nature

Three interwoven themes dominate "Come Now, Sing Me The Song Our Mother": memory, love, and nature. The poem hinges on the power of memory to transport the speaker back to a simpler, happier time. The request to "sing me the song our mother used to sing" is a direct appeal to unlock these cherished memories. Love, specifically maternal love and the love for one's homeland, permeates the poem. The speaker's longing for his mother's presence and her comforting voice is palpable, and this love extends to the natural world that shaped his childhood, particularly the "autumn garden" and "fallen leaves of the rowan-tree." Nature acts as a symbol of peace, comfort, and the enduring essence of home.

Birches and Brood Hens: The Power of Symbolism

The poem is rich in symbolism, with the birch tree and the image of the mother with her brood hens standing out. The birch tree, a recurring symbol in Russian literature and folklore, represents purity, grace, and the spirit of the Russian countryside. In this poem, the speaker equates the singer with the "birch-tree that back home by the window grew," suggesting that the singer embodies the same comforting and familiar presence as the homeland itself. The image of the mother and her brood hens evokes a sense of warmth, security, and familial protection. It speaks to the simple, nurturing aspects of rural life that the speaker deeply misses.

A Concluding Song: A Lasting Impression

In conclusion, "Come Now, Sing Me The Song Our Mother" is a poignant exploration of memory, love, and the enduring power of home. Through evocative imagery and a shift from melancholy to joyful remembrance, Yesenin creates a powerful testament to the importance of cherishing our past and finding solace in the familiar melodies of our lives. The poem's enduring significance lies in its universal appeal to the human longing for connection, comfort, and a sense of belonging.