Symbols
Symbols - meaning Summary
Symbols of Decay and Folly
The poem compresses a set of stark, emblematic images to suggest ruined authority, misplaced duty, and the paradox of beauty riding with destruction. A battered watch-tower and a blind hermit marking time imply abandoned order. An "all-destroying" sword paradoxically carried by a wandering fool, and its gold-sewn silk, link violence, ceremonial splendor, and folly. Overall the poem examines decay and the ironic persistence of form and ornament amid collapse.
Read Complete AnalysesA storm-beaten old watch-tower, A blind hermit rings the hour. All-destroying sword-blade still Carried by the wandering fool. Gold-sewn silk on the sword-blade, Beauty and fool together laid.
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