Poem Analysis - Europe The 72 D And 73 D Years Of These States

An Overview of Whitman's "Europe"

Walt Whitman’s "Europe, the 72d and 73d years of These States" is a powerful and defiant poem that grapples with the setbacks faced by revolutionary movements in Europe. The poem opens with a burst of hope and energy, but quickly darkens as it acknowledges the resurgence of oppressive forces. Despite the violence and tyranny depicted, the poem maintains an underlying tone of unwavering faith in the eventual triumph of liberty. The mood shifts from initial optimism to grim acknowledgment of reality, and finally to a resolute declaration of hope and perseverance.

Historical Echoes and Context

While the poem doesn't explicitly detail the specific historical events of the 1872nd and 1873rd years, it's understood that it reflects the suppression of various European revolutionary and republican movements of the mid-19th century. Whitman, a staunch believer in democracy and the potential of the common person, was deeply disappointed by the failures of these uprisings. This poem serves as a lament for those lost struggles and a call for continued resistance against oppressive regimes. The "These States" in the title is a way of tying together America's revolutionary past with Europe's struggles for self determination, while also suggesting they share a similar potential for greatness.

The Enduring Spirit of Freedom

One of the central themes of the poem is the enduring spirit of freedom and resistance. Even in the face of defeat and the return of tyrannical rule, Whitman asserts that the desire for liberty cannot be extinguished. This theme is developed through the powerful imagery of the murdered revolutionaries. Their deaths are not portrayed as final ends, but as seeds that will germinate and grow into future movements for freedom. Whitman emphasizes that the ideals of liberty are immortal and will continue to inspire generations to challenge oppression.

Tyranny's Many Faces

Another key theme is the multifaceted nature of tyranny. Whitman doesn't simply depict kings and rulers as the sole agents of oppression. Instead, he highlights the various institutions and figures that support and perpetuate authoritarian power. The "train" of the returning monarchs—including hangmen, priests, tax-gatherers, soldiers, lawyers, lords, jailers, and sycophants—represents the complex web of individuals and systems that uphold injustice. The mysterious "Shape" draped in scarlet folds, with its single, crooked finger pointing like a snake, symbolizes a more insidious and hidden form of evil, perhaps representing the corruption and manipulation that underlie oppressive regimes.

The Power of Resilience

A third major theme is the importance of resilience and unwavering hope in the face of adversity. Despite the graphic depictions of violence and oppression, the poem ends with a declaration of unwavering faith in liberty. Whitman refuses to despair, urging his readers to remain vigilant and ready for the eventual return of freedom. The final lines serve as a powerful call to action, reminding us that the struggle for liberty is ongoing and requires constant dedication and perseverance.

Recurring Symbols: Blood and Seed

The poem employs several recurring symbols that contribute to its overall message. Blood, evident in the "bloody corpses of young men," symbolizes both the violence of oppression and the sacrifice made by those who fight for freedom. However, this blood is not just an end point; it becomes a fertile ground for future resistance. The image of seed, growing from the graves of the murdered, is a powerful metaphor for the enduring nature of liberty. It suggests that even in death, the ideals of freedom can take root and flourish, spreading through the "winds" and being nourished by the "rains and snows." The contrast between the immediate brutality and the long-term promise of renewal emphasizes Whitman's unwavering belief in the eventual triumph of justice.

Conclusion: An Enduring Call to Vigilance

"Europe, the 72d and 73d years of These States" is a complex and emotionally charged poem that reflects Whitman's deep concern for the fate of liberty in a world where tyranny continues to resurface. By contrasting moments of hope with stark depictions of oppression, the poem serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the importance of unwavering faith in the face of adversity. It’s a call to vigilance, urging readers to remain steadfast in their pursuit of freedom and to recognize that the seeds of liberty can grow even in the darkest of times. The poem’s lasting significance lies in its enduring message of hope and its commitment to the ideals of democracy and human dignity.