Poem Analysis - Prayer Of Columbus

Walt Whitman's "Prayer of Columbus" is a poignant and introspective monologue delivered by a dying Columbus, reflecting on his life's work and his relationship with God. The poem begins with a tone of weariness and despair, shifts to fervent devotion, and culminates in a mystical acceptance of the unknown future. It's a complex portrayal of a historical figure grappling with mortality, legacy, and the divine purpose that drove his actions. The poem’s emotional arc traces a journey from physical suffering to spiritual surrender.

Columbus's Declining State

The poem opens with a stark depiction of Columbus's physical and emotional state. He describes himself as "A batter'd, wreck'd old man," highlighting his frailty and the toll that his voyages and subsequent hardships have taken. The imagery of being "Thrown on this savage shore, far, far from home" emphasizes his isolation and vulnerability. He is "Pent by the sea, and dark rebellious brows," suggesting both physical confinement and a sense of opposition from the world around him. This section establishes the profound sense of suffering that motivates his prayer.

The Divine Mandate

A central theme of the poem is the unquestioning acceptance of a divine mandate. Columbus repeatedly emphasizes that his actions were driven by a higher power. He states, "All my emprises have been fill'd with Thee, / My speculations, plans, begun and carried on in thoughts of Thee." This reinforces the idea that his voyages weren't simply about exploration or conquest, but about fulfilling a divine purpose. The "urge, the ardor, the unconquerable will" he describes are presented as gifts from God, compelling him to act. Even in moments of doubt, he returns to this fundamental belief in a divinely ordained destiny. This is the backbone of his self-justification.

Uncertain Legacy

The theme of legacy and the unknown future is explored through Columbus's musings on the consequences of his actions. He acknowledges that "The end I know not—it is all in Thee," displaying a sense of humility about the ultimate outcome of his discoveries. He wonders whether the "brutish, measureless human undergrowth" he introduced to the New World will flourish, and whether the "lifeless cross—Europe's dead cross—may bud and blossom there." These lines reveal a certain anxiety about the future impact of his actions, acknowledging that the outcome is beyond his control. He leaves the results to God.

Light as Symbol

The recurring image of light functions as a symbol of divine grace and guidance. Columbus thanks God for the "ray of light, steady, ineffable, vouchsafed of Thee." This light represents not only the illumination of his path but also a deeper spiritual understanding. He describes it as "Light rare, untellable—lighting the very light! / Beyond all signs, descriptions, languages!" This emphasizes the profound and inexpressible nature of his connection with God. The light illuminates his purpose even as his physical sight begins to fail.

A Visionary Conclusion

The poem concludes with a visionary experience, as Columbus sees "Shadowy, vast shapes, smile through the air and sky, / And on the distant waves sail countless ships, / And anthems in new tongues I hear saluting me." This suggests a glimpse into a future beyond his own understanding, a future shaped by his actions. It is a moment of acceptance and transcendence, as he yields his ships and his life to God's command. Is this a prophecy of the future, or a hallucination brought on by his impending death? The poem leaves this question open, adding to its mystique.

In conclusion, "Prayer of Columbus" is a complex and moving exploration of faith, mortality, and the ambiguity of legacy. Through vivid imagery, emotional shifts, and recurring symbols, Whitman crafts a compelling portrait of a historical figure grappling with the consequences of his actions and seeking solace in his relationship with the divine. The poem's enduring power lies in its ability to capture the human struggle to find meaning and purpose in the face of uncertainty.