Poem Analysis - Crossing The Water

An Exploration of Darkness and Silence

Sylvia Plath's "Crossing The Water" is a journey into a dark, internal landscape. The poem evokes a sense of foreboding and introspection, utilizing stark imagery and a melancholic tone. The poem begins with a scene steeped in blackness and progresses toward a confrontation with silence and the unknown. While initially unsettling, a subtle shift occurs with the emergence of light among the lilies, hinting at a complex relationship between despair and a fragile, emerging beauty. The poem ultimately leaves the reader contemplating the nature of existence and the weight of unspoken truths.

Plath's Personal Context and the Allure of Darkness

While a deep dive into Plath's biography isn't essential for understanding this poem, acknowledging her well-documented struggles with depression and mental illness provides a valuable lens. The recurring motif of darkness, both literal and figurative, can be seen as reflecting her own internal battles. The "black lake" and "black boat" could be interpreted as representing the depths of her psychological state, and the journey across the water may symbolize a confrontation with those inner demons.

Navigating the Murky Waters of Isolation and Mortality

One prominent theme in "Crossing The Water" is isolation. The "two black, cut-paper people" suggest a detachment, a feeling of being reduced to mere outlines, disconnected from the world and perhaps from each other. This isolation is further emphasized by the vastness of the lake and the unseen presence of the "black trees" whose shadows extend into Canada, hinting at the immense scale of their separation. Secondly, the poem grapples with the theme of mortality. The "snag lifting a valedictory, pale hand" serves as a stark reminder of death and decay. The gesture is "valedictory," implying a final farewell, a recognition of the inevitable end. Finally, the poem deals with introspection and the search for meaning. The "dark advice" from the water flowers and the "silence of astounded souls" points to the idea that profound understanding comes from confronting the unknown and accepting the uncomfortable truths that lie beneath the surface.

Symbolism: The Color Black, the Lake, and the Lilies

The color black is a dominant symbol throughout the poem. It represents not only literal darkness, but also the unknown, the unconscious, and perhaps even despair. The "black lake," "black boat," and "black trees" create an atmosphere of mystery and foreboding. The lake itself can be interpreted as a metaphor for the subconscious mind. Crossing it represents a journey into the depths of one's own psyche, a confrontation with hidden fears and unresolved issues. In contrast to the darkness, the lilies emerging with "stars" carry a dual symbolism. Traditionally, lilies represent purity and innocence, yet here they appear amidst darkness, suggesting a fragile beauty or a glimmer of hope emerging from a troubled landscape. The "stars" among them could represent moments of clarity or inspiration that pierce through the darkness.

Whispers of the Unspoken: The "Silence of Astounded Souls"

The poem culminates in the "silence of astounded souls." This phrase is particularly powerful and open to interpretation. What has silenced these souls? Perhaps they are overwhelmed by the enormity of existence, stunned by the realization of their own mortality, or paralyzed by the weight of unspoken truths. The sirens, usually associated with alluring voices and temptation, are here "expressionless," contributing to the overall sense of silence and disorientation. One might wonder if this silence is a form of acceptance, a quiet resignation in the face of the unknown, or a prelude to a deeper understanding.

A Journey into the Depths of the Self

In conclusion, "Crossing The Water" is a haunting exploration of isolation, mortality, and the search for meaning within a dark and uncertain world. Plath's skillful use of imagery, particularly the pervasive symbolism of blackness and the fragile emergence of light, creates a compelling and unsettling atmosphere. The poem's significance lies in its ability to capture the complex and often contradictory nature of the human experience, reminding us that even in the deepest darkness, there may still be a glimmer of hope, a fragile bloom of understanding waiting to be discovered. The ending silence invites continued contemplation, asking us to consider what it means to be astounded and to find meaning in the face of the unknown.