Poem Analysis - Lapis Lazuli

A World Weary Yet Transcendent: An Overview

Yeats' "Lapis Lazuli" is a complex and compelling meditation on tragedy, art, and the human capacity for resilience. The poem begins with a sense of weariness and impending doom, voiced through the complaints of "hysterical women," but gradually shifts towards a perspective of acceptance and even joy in the face of inevitable destruction. This transition is marked by reflections on the nature of art, the weight of history, and the enduring spirit of humanity, ultimately finding solace in the image of the serene Chinamen carved in lapis lazuli.

Historical Shadows and Artistic Response

Written in 1936, the poem reflects the anxieties of a world teetering on the brink of another global conflict. The reference to "Aeroplane and Zeppelin" directly evokes the looming threat of aerial warfare, a terrifying prospect for civilians. This historical context infuses the poem with a sense of urgency and dread, prompting Yeats to grapple with how art and humanity can endure in the face of such overwhelming destruction. The poem, therefore, isn't merely an aesthetic reflection, but a direct response to the very real anxieties of a world hurtling towards war. The poem could be considered Yeats' answer to the question of how to live, and create, in times of extreme peril.

The Enduring Power of Art and Acceptance

One central theme is the transcendent power of art to confront and even transform tragedy. Yeats argues that great works of art, exemplified by Shakespearean tragedies, do not simply wallow in despair, but rather offer a vision of "gaiety transfiguring all that dread." This "gaiety" is not frivolous, but a profound understanding of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. Another significant theme is the acceptance of mortality and impermanence. The poem acknowledges that "all things fall and are built again," emphasizing the futility of clinging to earthly possessions or achievements. By embracing this truth, individuals can find a sense of freedom and detachment from the anxieties of the world. Finally, there is a theme of civilizational cycles, or the inevitable rise and fall of empires and cultures. Through referencing both Callimachus and the ancient Chinese figures on the lapis lazuli, Yeats emphasizes that no achievement is permanent, and that destruction always precedes renewal.

Lapis Lazuli and the Symbolism of Joy

The image of the lapis lazuli carving is the poem's central symbol, representing the enduring spirit of humanity and the power of art to transcend tragedy. The Chinamen, despite their age and the "tragic scene" they survey, remain "gay." This "gayety" is not a denial of suffering, but a recognition of its place within the larger tapestry of existence. The "accidental crack or dent" in the stone, which becomes a "water-course or an avalanche," symbolizes the unpredictable nature of life and the inevitability of disaster. Yet, even within these imperfections, there is beauty and meaning. The long-legged bird, a symbol of longevity, further reinforces the idea of endurance and the cyclical nature of time. Is the "musical instrument" a symbol for creativity and the ability to find joy and meaning even in the face of tragedy? This ambiguity invites the reader to ponder the complexities of the human spirit.

Finding Serenity in the Face of Oblivion: The Poem's Message

In conclusion, "Lapis Lazuli" is a powerful and complex poem that offers a perspective of resilience and acceptance in the face of impending doom. Through vivid imagery, historical allusions, and the central symbol of the lapis lazuli carving, Yeats suggests that art and a deep understanding of the cyclical nature of life can provide solace and even joy in a world constantly threatened by destruction. The poem ultimately celebrates the enduring spirit of humanity, its ability to find beauty and meaning even amidst the most tragic circumstances.