A Man Young and Old: 2. Human Dignity
A Man Young and Old: 2. Human Dignity - meaning Summary
Dignity Muffles the Cry
The speaker describes a compassionate figure whose kindness is remote and impersonal, like the moon: equal for everyone yet unable to grasp his unique sorrow. He likens himself to a stone beneath a broken tree, inert and isolated. Though he could cry out and relieve his "heart's agony," he remains silent because of human dignity. The poem examines restraint, unshared suffering, and the lonely effects of pride and decorum.
Read Complete AnalysesLike the moon her kindness is, If kindness I may call What has no comprehension in't, But is the same for all As though my sorrow were a scene Upon a painted wall. So like a bit of stone I lie Under a broken tree. I could recover if I shrieked My heart's agony To passing bird, but I am dumb From human dignity.
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