Poem Analysis - Atlantis

Introduction: A Journey of the Mind

W.H. Auden's "Atlantis" is a complex and layered poem that uses the mythical lost city as a metaphor for the pursuit of an ideal. The poem unfolds as a series of instructions and warnings to someone embarking on this quest, creating a sense of both adventure and caution. The tone is initially cynical, bordering on humorous, as the poem mocks the naive enthusiasm for the quest. However, it gradually shifts to one of encouragement and even reverence, urging the seeker to persevere despite the inevitable disappointments and distractions. Ultimately, the poem suggests that the true value lies not in reaching Atlantis itself, but in the transformative journey undertaken in its pursuit.

The Illusion of Perfection: Chasing a Dream

One of the central themes of "Atlantis" is the illusion of perfection and the dangers of seeking an idealized state. Atlantis represents an unattainable goal, a symbol of ultimate happiness or fulfillment. The poem cautions against the single-minded pursuit of this ideal, highlighting the potential for disappointment and the need to recognize the value in the journey itself. The various cities the traveler encounters – the intellectual Ionia, the barbaric Thrace, the pleasure-seeking Carthage and Corinth – symbolize the many distractions and temptations that can derail the quest. The poem implies that clinging too tightly to the idealized vision of Atlantis prevents genuine engagement with the present and the experiences it offers.

The Importance of Doubt and Experience: A Path to Understanding

Another key theme is the importance of doubt and experience in shaping belief. The poem encourages the seeker to engage with skepticism and to learn from the perspectives of others, even those who deny the existence of Atlantis. The scholars of Ionia, though denying Atlantis logically, reveal their own profound grief, suggesting that their intellect masks a deeper yearning. The poem emphasizes that true understanding comes not from blind faith, but from critical thinking and the willingness to question assumptions. By immersing oneself in the diverse experiences offered along the way, the seeker gains a more nuanced understanding of both the world and the self, preparing them to recognize, or at least appreciate, the true nature of their desired "Atlantis" if they ever find it.

The Transformative Power of the Journey: A Pilgrimage of Self-Discovery

The poem also explores the transformative power of the journey itself. The arduous trek inland, through "squalid woods and frozen thundras," symbolizes the challenges and hardships that must be endured in the pursuit of any meaningful goal. The poem suggests that the journey is more important than the destination, as it is through these experiences that the seeker grows and evolves. The image of the seeker collapsing at the "last col," unable to descend into Atlantis, reinforces this idea. Even without reaching the destination, the seeker is encouraged to feel proud of having glimpsed Atlantis in a "poetic vision," recognizing the value of the striving itself. The journey becomes a process of self-discovery, shaping the seeker's character and providing a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Symbols of Guidance and Protection: Navigating the Unknown

Throughout the poem, several symbols of guidance and protection appear, offering reassurance to the seeker. Hermes, the "master of the roads," represents guidance and communication, while the "four dwarf Kabiri" symbolize protection and service. The "Ancient of Days" provides "invisible guidance," suggesting a divine force that watches over the seeker. These symbols suggest that even in the face of uncertainty and hardship, the seeker is not alone and is supported by forces beyond their understanding. The concluding farewell, with its invocation of these protective figures, reinforces the idea that the journey, though challenging, is ultimately a worthwhile and divinely sanctioned endeavor.

Conclusion: The Enduring Quest

"Atlantis" is a profound meditation on the nature of dreams, the pursuit of ideals, and the importance of the journey. The poem's layered symbolism and shifting tones create a rich and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition. It suggests that the true value lies not in achieving the unattainable, but in embracing the transformative power of the quest itself, learning from both triumphs and setbacks, and ultimately finding meaning in the ongoing process of striving. The poem serves as a reminder that the most valuable discoveries are often made not at the destination, but along the way.