Poem Analysis - Matthew

A Quiet Elegy for a Lost Soul

William Wordsworth's "Matthew" is a tender and contemplative elegy for a man remembered with affection and a touch of melancholic wonder. The poem begins with a direct address to an idealized reader, inviting them to reflect on the passage of time and the fragility of human existence. The tone is initially reverent and thoughtful, gradually shifting to a more personal and wistful reflection on the character of Matthew and the brevity of his presence. The poem explores themes of memory, loss, and the enduring power of simple humanity in the face of mortality.

Remembering Matthew: A Reflection on Time and Mortality

One of the central themes of "Matthew" is the transience of life and the inevitability of mortality. The poem opens with a suggestion that Matthew, despite his vitality ("every hour thy heart runs wild"), is ultimately subject to time's passage. The "tablet" mentioned in the poem, with its "history of two hundred years," serves as a stark reminder of the vastness of time compared to a single human life. The lines "That these two words of glittering gold/Are all that must remain of thee?" poignantly capture the idea that even a life lived with joy and depth may ultimately be reduced to a few fleeting words. The poem uses Matthew’s silence ("silent as a standing pool") as a symbol of his absence and the permanence of death.

The Enduring Power of Memory and Human Connection

Despite the somber tone, the poem also emphasizes the importance of memory and human connection. The act of reading and reflecting upon Matthew's name is presented as a way to keep his spirit alive. The speaker explicitly requests the reader to "pause with no common sympathy" and allow a "sleeping tear" to fall, indicating the value of shared emotion and remembrance. The detailed description of Matthew's personality, including his "frolics" and his capacity for "serious thought," paints a vivid portrait of a complex and beloved individual. This suggests that even in death, a person's character and essence can continue to resonate through the memories of those who knew them.

Symbols of Life and Loss: From Merry Roar to Standing Pool

The poem employs several key images to symbolize Matthew's life and the loss felt after his passing. The "chimney's merry roar" and the "murmur of the village school" represent the vitality and community that once surrounded him. In contrast, the "standing pool" symbolizes Matthew's current state of silence and stillness, highlighting the profound difference between his past liveliness and his present absence. The tears associated with Matthew are described as "tears of light, the dew of gladness," suggesting that even in sadness, there is a recognition of the joy and vibrancy he brought to the world. The "secret cup/Of still and serious thought" symbolizes Matthew's inner depth and capacity for contemplation, further enriching the portrait of his character.

A Lasting Impression: The Significance of Simple Humanity

In conclusion, "Matthew" is a poignant exploration of loss, memory, and the enduring value of human connection. Wordsworth uses vivid imagery and heartfelt reflections to create a lasting impression of a man remembered with deep affection. The poem reminds us that even though life is fleeting, the memories and connections we forge can transcend the limitations of time and mortality. The true significance of the poem lies in its quiet celebration of a simple life lived with joy, depth, and a capacity for genuine human connection, reminding us that even ordinary lives can leave an extraordinary impact on those who remember them.