Poem Analysis - Answer

Introduction: A Call to Action

Sir Walter Scott's "Answer" is a short, powerful declaration of the value of a life lived with passion and purpose. The poem pulses with a vibrant, almost militaristic energy, urging readers to seize the moment and embrace a life of action rather than a dull, unremarkable existence. The tone is initially celebratory and invigorating, like a rallying cry, but it carries an underlying weight of the ephemeral nature of glory. The poem's strength lies in its concise and compelling presentation of a timeless human aspiration: to leave a lasting mark on the world.

The Allure of Lasting Impact

One of the poem's central themes is the pursuit of lasting impact. Scott juxtaposes the "crowded hour of glorious life" with an "age without a name." This contrast suggests a deep-seated fear of being forgotten, of living a life devoid of significance. The poem champions the idea that a short, intense period of achievement and recognition is far more desirable than a long, anonymous existence. The use of "glorious" implies that this impact need not be material or even positive, it simply needs to be memorable and talked about.

Embracing the Fleeting Moment

Another key theme is the embrace of the fleeting moment. The phrase "one crowded hour" emphasizes the brevity of opportunity. The poem isn't advocating for recklessness, but rather for a bold seizing of the moment. The opening lines, with their call to "sound the clarion, fill the fife!" create a sense of urgency and immediacy. This is not a time for contemplation, but for action. The poem suggests that true living involves active participation and a willingness to risk everything for a chance at greatness, however short-lived.

Sensuality Versus Anonymity

The poem explores a tension between a sensual, active life and a passive, unremarkable one. The line "To all the sensual world proclaim" contrasts the vibrant experience of living fully with the emptiness of an "age without a name." This "sensual world" is presented as the arena where one can achieve this “crowded hour.” The poem encourages the embracing of earthly experiences and achievements to avoid the dread of anonymity. It creates the impression that being remembered is preferable to having any other experience.

Symbolism of Sound and Time

The poem employs powerful symbolism to convey its message. The clarion and fife are not merely musical instruments; they symbolize a call to arms, a rallying cry for action. Their sound represents the fame and recognition that accompany a life of achievement. The image of the "crowded hour" is also symbolic. It encapsulates the idea that time is precious and should be filled with meaningful experiences. Could "crowded" also represent a life packed with people or events, suggesting a life fully engaged with the world, instead of one of isolation and quiet existence?

Concluding Thoughts: A Legacy of Action

In conclusion, Sir Walter Scott's "Answer" is a powerful and concise poem that champions a life of purpose and action over a passive, anonymous existence. Through vivid imagery and a strong, urgent tone, the poem encourages readers to seize the moment and strive for greatness, even if that greatness is fleeting. The poem’s lasting significance lies in its timeless appeal to the human desire for recognition and its call to live a life that resonates with meaning and impact, a life that will be remembered long after we are gone. The poem serves as a reminder that a short, intense period of achievement can be far more valuable than a long, uneventful life.