Poem Analysis - The Two Trees

Introduction: A Dichotomy of Inner Worlds

William Butler Yeats' "The Two Trees" presents a compelling contrast between two distinct inner landscapes: one of vibrant life and creative energy, and the other of bleak despair and destructive thought. The poem unfolds as an intimate address, urging a "Beloved" to turn inward, away from the superficial and potentially harmful reflections of the external world. The tone shifts between fervent encouragement and gentle warning, painting a vivid picture of both the potential for inner harmony and the dangers of succumbing to negativity. Ultimately, the poem serves as a powerful allegory for the choices we make regarding our own mental and emotional well-being, and the impact those choices have on our perception of the world.

Historical Context: Yeats' Interest in Symbolism and the Inner Life

While not directly tied to a specific historical event, "The Two Trees" reflects Yeats' broader interests in symbolism, mythology, and the exploration of the inner life. Yeats was deeply involved in the occult and esoteric traditions, believing in the power of symbols to access deeper truths and realities. This interest is evident in the poem's use of potent imagery and the creation of symbolic representations of the internal world, aligning with the broader fin-de-siècle preoccupation with spirituality and the search for meaning beyond the material world. The poem mirrors his personal philosophical system.

The Theme of Inner Harmony vs. Inner Turmoil

A central theme in "The Two Trees" is the contrast between inner harmony and inner turmoil. The "holy tree" represents a state of creative joy, peacefulness, and connection to the cosmos. Yeats depicts this state with vibrant imagery: "joy" producing "holy branches" bearing "trembling flowers," and the tree's root "planted quiet in the night." In contrast, the "bitter glass" reveals a "fatal image" of a tree ravaged by storm and snow, its branches broken and leaves blackened. This imagery vividly portrays the destructive consequences of negative thoughts and emotions, suggesting that dwelling on "outer weariness" can lead to inner barrenness.

The Duality of Love and its Impact

The poem also explores the transformative power of love, specifically romantic love, as a pathway to either inner fulfillment or despair. The poem's opening and closing verses directly address the "Beloved," whose gaze inward is crucial. When the Beloved gazes into their own heart, they find the "holy tree," suggesting that love fosters a vibrant and creative inner world. However, when they gaze into the "bitter glass," their "tender eyes grow all unkind," implying that negative reflections, amplified by the demons in the glass, can poison even the purest love. This duality suggests that the health of the relationship is intertwined with the individual's internal state.

Symbolism of the Trees and the Glass

The two trees themselves are potent symbols of the inner self. The "holy tree" represents the potential for growth, creativity, and connection to a higher power. Its fruits "dowered the stars with merry light," symbolizing the ability of inner joy to illuminate the world around us. The "shaking of its leafy head" giving "the waves their melody" suggests that this inner harmony can even influence the external world. Conversely, the tree reflected in the "bitter glass" symbolizes the destructive force of negativity. Its "broken boughs and blackened leaves" represent the decay and barrenness that can result from dwelling on negative thoughts and experiences. The "bitter glass" itself is a symbol of superficiality and the potentially harmful reflections offered by the external world, emphasizing the importance of cultivating inner strength and resilience.

Imagery of Light and Darkness

The poem is rich with imagery of light and darkness, which further emphasizes the contrast between the two inner landscapes. The "holy tree" is associated with light, music, and vibrant color, reflecting a state of joy and creative energy. The fruits of the tree "dowered the stars with merry light," and the tree itself generates "melody." In contrast, the tree reflected in the "bitter glass" is shrouded in darkness and associated with barrenness. The "stormy night" and "snows" contribute to a sense of coldness and desolation, reflecting the destructive power of negativity. This contrast highlights the importance of choosing to focus on the positive and nurturing aspects of the inner world.

Conclusion: A Call for Inner Awareness

"The Two Trees" is a powerful call for inner awareness and a reminder of the choices we make regarding our own mental and emotional well-being. By presenting two contrasting visions of the inner self, Yeats urges us to cultivate the "holy tree" within, nurturing our creativity, joy, and connection to the world around us. He warns us against the dangers of dwelling on negativity and allowing external influences to poison our inner landscape. The poem ultimately suggests that true happiness and fulfillment come not from external sources, but from cultivating a vibrant and resilient inner world. The poem is timeless reminder of the importance of focusing on love and creating a healthy inner state.