Poem Analysis - Remembrance Of

A Serene Reflection on Grief and Inspiration

Wordsworth's "Remembrance Of" is a contemplative poem centered around the Thames River, serving as a source of solace and inspiration. The poem begins with a sense of tranquil adoration for the river, evolves into a poignant reflection on a past poet's suffering, and culminates in a quiet prayer for future generations. Its tone is predominantly serene and reverent, punctuated by moments of empathetic grief. A subtle shift occurs mid-poem as the speaker transitions from admiring the river's beauty to acknowledging a poet's darker experience, but the overriding feeling remains one of peaceful contemplation.

The Thames as a Mirror to the Soul

One of the central themes is the power of nature to reflect and influence the human soul. The Thames is not merely a river, but a symbol of enduring peace and beauty. Wordsworth repeatedly calls upon it to "glide gently" and "flow," expressing a desire for human minds to emulate its serenity. Lines like "Thy quiet soul on all bestowing, / Till all our minds for ever flow / As thy deep waters now are flowing" highlight this aspiration. The river is envisioned as a mirror, offering a reflection of "a poet's heart, / How bright, how solemn, how serene!" This suggests that immersion in nature can reveal both the beauty and the gravity within ourselves.

The Burden of Artistic Sensitivity

The poem also explores the theme of artistic suffering. The speaker acknowledges a past poet who found "no refuge from distress / But in the milder grief of pity." This implies that the very sensitivity that allows a poet to create can also make them vulnerable to deep sorrow. The "milder grief of pity" might refer to the poet's ability to empathize with the suffering of others, which provides a degree of solace, yet is still a form of emotional burden. Wordsworth's use of the pronoun "him," instead of mentioning a specific poet, makes the past artist an archetype of creative souls burdened by sensitivity. The reader may wonder if he feels a kinship with that suffering.

Finding Solace in Tranquility and Remembrance

The theme of remembrance and honoring past artists is another key element. The speaker calls for a moment of silence, urging "us, as we float along, / For 'him' suspend the dashing oar." This act of pausing and remembering is significant. It demonstrates a respect for the poet who suffered and suggests that by acknowledging their struggles, we can hope to alleviate future pain. The image of "the dripping of the oar suspended!" is particularly evocative, creating a sense of stillness and reverence. This quiet moment contrasts with the earlier image of the flowing river, highlighting the importance of stopping to reflect on the past.

The Symbolism of Darkness and Virtue

The poem concludes with the image of "evening darkness" gathering around, but this darkness is "By virtue's holiest Powers attended." The image of darkness is a recurring symbol, traditionally associated with sorrow, despair, or the unknown. However, in this context, the darkness is not something to be feared, but rather something that is sanctified by "virtue's holiest Powers." This juxtaposition suggests that even in times of darkness and grief, there is still hope and moral guidance available. It could also symbolize that the act of remembering and honoring the past, particularly the suffering of past artists, is itself a virtuous act.

Final Thoughts: A Prayer for Future Poets

In conclusion, "Remembrance Of" is a meditation on the intertwined relationship between nature, artistic expression, and human suffering. The Thames River serves as a mirror to the poet's soul, reflecting both its beauty and its capacity for sorrow. By acknowledging the pain of past poets, the speaker offers a prayer that future generations of artists may be spared similar burdens. The poem's ultimate significance lies in its exploration of the delicate balance between sensitivity and suffering, and its hopeful assertion that even in the darkest of times, virtue and remembrance can offer solace and guidance.