Poem Analysis - Words

Introduction: A Poet's Justification

Yeats's "Words" is a reflective poem exploring the power and necessity of language for both the poet and his relationship. The poem begins with a sense of frustration and doubt, questioning his ability to communicate with his beloved. This frustration gradually shifts to a renewed appreciation for words as the means by which he expresses himself and connects with her, culminating in a sense of validation and even a slight fear of what life might have been without the solace of poetic expression. The overall tone is introspective and confessional, tinged with a hint of romanticism and a deep appreciation for the art of poetry.

The Theme of Communication and Understanding

One of the central themes is the struggle for communication and understanding within a relationship. The poem opens with the speaker's insecurity, "My darling cannot understand / What I have done, or what would do." This establishes a sense of distance and a perceived barrier between the poet and his beloved. He feels misunderstood, perhaps because of the complexities of his work or the turbulent political landscape of "this blind bitter land." The repeated emphasis on "understanding" highlights the poet's yearning to bridge this gap and share his inner world with her. He seems to believe that poetry and words are the main thing making them connect and understand each other.

Poetry as a Source of Strength

The poem portrays poetry as a source of personal strength and purpose. The lines, "Remembering that the best I have done / Was done to make it plain; / That every year I have cried, 'At length / My darling understands it all, / Because I have come into my strength, / And words obey my call'," reveal a significant shift in perspective. He realizes that his most meaningful work is that which clarifies and makes his thoughts accessible. The phrase "words obey my call" suggests a mastery and control over language that empowers him. This newfound strength is directly linked to his ability to communicate effectively with his "darling," implying that poetry not only benefits him personally but also strengthens their bond.

The Symbolism of "Words" and the "Sieve"

The poem employs potent symbolism, most notably in the image of "words" and the "sieve." "Words" themselves symbolize not just communication but also the poet's creative output and his means of engaging with the world. The "sieve," on the other hand, represents the filtering process of experience and the potential for loss or regret. The lines, "That had she done so who can say / What would have shaken from the sieve? / I might have thrown poor words away / And been content to live," suggest that without the need to express himself through poetry, something vital might have been lost. Perhaps he would have lost a part of himself, or perhaps he would have settled for a life less examined and less fulfilling. The "sieve" implies that experiences, if not processed and articulated, can slip away, leaving one with a sense of emptiness. The question remains: what exactly would have been "shaken from the sieve?" Could it be hardship, understanding, or a simple content he could not have had without finding words to describe it?

Conclusion: The Indispensable Nature of Expression

"Words" ultimately celebrates the indispensable nature of language, particularly poetic language, in shaping both personal identity and relationships. Yeats explores how the act of articulating thoughts and emotions, even in the face of initial frustration, can lead to greater understanding, strength, and connection. The poem suggests that for the poet, words are not merely tools of communication but essential elements of his being. The poem leaves the reader contemplating the delicate balance between living and expressing, and the potential consequences of silencing one's creative voice.