Poem Analysis - Mark The Concentrated Hazels That Enclose

A Meditation on Mortality and Time

William Wordsworth's "Mark The Concentrated Hazels That Enclose" is a contemplative poem that meditates on mortality, the passage of time, and nature's ability to reflect human experiences. The poem evokes a somber and reverent tone, initially focusing on a specific, sheltered place before expanding into broader reflections. The mood remains consistent throughout, marked by a sense of quiet awe and solemn contemplation of death and remembrance.

Nature's Mimicry of Human Impermanence

One of the central themes in the poem is the relationship between nature and mortality. Wordsworth presents the natural scene – the hazels, the old grey stone, and the moss – as a kind of memento mori, a reminder of death. The poem draws a parallel between the natural world and human existence. The "embowering gloom" surrounding the stone creates an image that resembles a tomb, directly connecting nature with death and decay. The phrase "solitary Nature condescends / To mimic Time's forlorn humanities" suggests that nature, in its own way, echoes the sadness and transience of human life.

The Tomb as a Symbol of Remembrance

The "old grey Stone" serves as a powerful symbol throughout the poem. It represents not only a literal tomb but also a repository of memory and history. The stone is "protected" and "enclosed," suggesting a deliberate preservation of the past. The hazels further isolate the stone, emphasizing its separateness and its connection to a time long gone. The stone becomes a focal point for reflection on the "ancient Chieftain" who lies within, prompting contemplation on the lives and legacies that have preceded us.

Light and Shadow: Contrasting Impermanence and Permanence

The imagery of light and shadow plays a crucial role in developing the poem's themes. The stone is "protected from the ray / Of noontide suns," suggesting a deliberate avoidance of the life-giving energy of the sun. The "beams that play / And glance" are "seldom free to touch the moss," further emphasizing the sheltered and secluded nature of the tomb. This deliberate obscuring of light reinforces the themes of death, secrecy, and the fading of memory. However, the very presence of moss and trees also suggests a persistence, as life continues despite the shadow of the tomb. It could be asked whether the shadow protects, allowing for a slower type of existence, a muted permanence different from the brilliance of open exposure.

Nature's Echo: A Final Reflection

In conclusion, "Mark The Concentrated Hazels That Enclose" is a poignant meditation on mortality and the enduring power of nature to reflect human experience. Wordsworth uses vivid imagery and symbolic language to explore the themes of death, memory, and the passage of time. The poem suggests that nature, in its quiet and unassuming way, serves as a constant reminder of our own impermanence, inviting us to contemplate the legacies we leave behind and the enduring cycles of life and death. The poem's significance lies in its ability to find profound meaning in a simple natural scene, transforming it into a powerful symbol of human existence.