Poem Analysis - As They Draw To A Close

Overview: A Summation of Purpose

Walt Whitman's "As they draw to a close" feels like a contemplative epilogue to a larger, unseen work. The poem exudes a tone of reflection and fulfillment as the speaker looks back on his life's endeavors. There's a sense of closure and acceptance, tinged with a touch of awe in the face of death and the mysteries of existence. While the poem doesn't dwell on sadness, there's a profound awareness of mortality and the enduring connections that transcend individual lives. It's a poem about legacy, connection, and finding meaning in the natural world.

Whitman's Vision and Poetic Ambition

While specific historical events aren't directly referenced in this poem, understanding Walt Whitman's broader artistic project is essential. Whitman sought to create a distinctly American voice, breaking free from European traditions and embracing the diversity and vitality of the United States. His poetry celebrated the common person, democracy, and the power of nature. "As they draw to a close" reflects this ambition by attempting to unify diverse elements – lives, landscapes, and the human soul – into a cohesive whole, showcasing Whitman's faith in interconnectedness.

The Seed of Joy and the Embrace of Mortality

One prominent theme is the **celebration of joy** found within the poet's work and life. The lines "Of joy, sweet joy, through many a year, in them" emphasize the positive force that has driven his creative endeavors. A second key theme is the **acceptance of death**. Instead of fearing mortality, the speaker addresses it directly, calling it "O mystery great!" and seeking to "place on record faith in you, O death!" This suggests a belief in death as a natural part of the life cycle, rather than something to be feared or avoided. Finally, the poem develops a theme of **interconnectedness**. The speaker desires "To compact you, ye parted, diverse lives!" and to establish "rapport" between nature and "O soul of man," emphasizing a belief in the unity of all things.

Symbolism of Nature and the Soul

Nature serves as a powerful symbol throughout the poem. The mountains, rocks, streams, forests, and winds are not merely descriptive elements; they represent the enduring forces of the universe and the interconnectedness of all things. The speaker seeks to unite these elements with the "soul of man," suggesting that humanity is an integral part of the natural world. The "seed" mentioned early on represents the ideas and values the speaker has sought to plant in his poems. It's a symbol of creativity, legacy, and the hope that his work will continue to resonate with future generations. The "mystery great" of death, while potentially frightening, also functions as a symbol of the unknown and the potential for transcendence.

Synthesis: Enduring Connections and Legacy

"As they draw to a close" is a powerful reflection on a life dedicated to art, connection, and the acceptance of mortality. Whitman's poem isn't merely a farewell; it's an affirmation of the enduring power of his work and the interconnectedness of all things. The poem ultimately suggests that true meaning is found not in avoiding death, but in embracing life fully and leaving behind a legacy that connects humanity to the natural world and to one another. The final lines, seeking to unite nature and the human soul, offer a vision of harmony and a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit. What remains unsaid, but powerfully implied, is the question of whether the speaker's vision of unity is ultimately achievable, or a hopeful aspiration for a world still striving for connection.