Poem Analysis - Kiss It Away

Introduction: A Cycle of Hope and Despair

Shel Silverstein's "Kiss It Away" is a poignant exploration of fleeting hope and persistent sorrow. The poem opens with a sense of optimism, suggesting that problems can be easily resolved with affection and simple gestures. However, this initial optimism quickly unravels, revealing a deeper sense of loss and a struggle to find lasting happiness. The tone shifts from hopeful anticipation to a melancholic acceptance of pain, culminating in a desperate plea for comfort.

The Illusion of Healing: The Theme of Fleeting Hope

One of the central themes of the poem is the fleeting nature of hope. The repeated phrase "Kiss it away" initially presents a simple solution to life's problems. It suggests that love and affection can erase difficulties and bring back happiness. The imagery of kissing away a "shadow on the sun" and "hurt down deep inside" creates a sense of easy resolution. However, the poem quickly undermines this idea. The speaker admits to having "kissed away" the "good times," implying that this method is not only ineffective but also potentially destructive, leading to a loss of joy and a bleak outlook on the future. The repetition of the phrase "Kiss it away" morphs from a mantra of hope into a lament of what has been lost, underlining the disillusionment.

The Weight of Unacknowledged Pain: Confronting Inner Hurt

The theme of unacknowledged pain runs throughout the poem. The line "there's hurt down deep inside that I been hidin'" reveals a deeper emotional wound that the speaker attempts to conceal. The act of "kissing it away" can be interpreted as a form of denial or avoidance, a way to suppress feelings rather than confront them. The poem suggests that this strategy ultimately fails, as the "hurt" persists and manifests as a general sense of coldness and despair. The image of being "wet and cold" emphasizes the speaker's vulnerability and the lingering effects of unresolved pain.

The Inevitability of Suffering: The Rain as a Symbol

The poem utilizes vivid imagery, particularly the recurring symbolism of the sun and rain, to explore the theme of inevitable suffering. The "sun" represents hope, happiness, and better times, while the "rain" symbolizes hardship, sorrow, and unexpected pain. The speaker's statement, "I keep thinkin' the sun will shine once more / I'm never ready for the sudden rain," captures the cyclical nature of hope and disappointment. The "rain" appears "sudden," highlighting the unpredictable nature of suffering. This also reinforces the earlier idea of ineffectiveness as he is always unprepared.

A Desperate Plea: Seeking Comfort in the Face of Despair

The final lines of the poem reveal a shift towards a desperate plea for comfort. The line "Come my pain" can be interpreted in two ways: it could be an invitation of despair, a total acceptance of suffering, or it could be a cry for help. The final request to "Kiss it away" indicates a desire for relief from the "coldness in the air" and the sense of something "dyin'." The speaker's vulnerability is amplified by the repetition of the "Kiss it away" line, ending the poem with both a question and a request that highlights the speaker's desperation.

Conclusion: A Lingering Sense of Loss

In conclusion, "Kiss It Away" is a powerful and moving poem that explores the complexities of hope, pain, and the human need for comfort. While initially presenting a seemingly simple solution to life's problems, the poem gradually reveals the limitations of superficial remedies and the persistence of deeper emotional wounds. The poem ends on a note of uncertainty, leaving the reader to ponder the possibility of finding solace in the face of overwhelming sorrow. It is a poignant reflection on the delicate balance between optimism and despair, and the enduring search for genuine healing.