Poem Analysis - The Common Life

Introduction: A Domestic Philosophy

W.H. Auden's "The Common Life" is a thoughtful meditation on the complexities of shared existence. The poem explores the fragile balance between individuality and togetherness, focusing on the seemingly mundane details of daily life as a reflection of deeper philosophical and emotional realities. The poem's tone is conversational and intellectual, shifting between wry observation and moments of sincere reflection. It ultimately celebrates the surprising endurance and value of companionship, despite the inherent challenges.

The Sanctity of Shared Space

One of the central themes is the idea of the home as a sacred space, a "catholic area" where individuals come together. Auden uses the imagery of the living room to illustrate this, noting how its style reveals a "secular faith." The meticulousness of the room reflects the values of its inhabitants. The poem contrasts spaces that are either too sterile or too chaotic, advocating for a balance that allows for both comfort and respect. This carefully curated environment becomes a microcosm of the relationship itself, a testament to the shared values and compromises that sustain it. The windows become a metaphor for privacy and protection against the external world.

Individuality within Togetherness

The poem grapples with the tension between individual identity and shared existence. Auden writes, "There's no We at an instant, / only Thou and I, two regions / of protestant being which nowhere overlap." This highlights the inherent separateness of individuals, even within a close relationship. He emphasizes the need for personal space and the ability to maintain a sense of self within the shared environment. The poem acknowledges that relationships are built on two distinct individuals with different histories, fears, and desires, creating a "common world" that is something of an anomaly. Even though they may not completely overlap, they have found a way to coexist and build something together.

The Miracle of Endurance

The poem explores the theme of endurance and forgiveness in long-term relationships. Auden marvels at the ability of two people to "forgive impossible behavior, / to endure by some miracle / conversational tics and larval habits / without wincing." This suggests that true connection requires a willingness to accept imperfections and to overlook minor annoyances. The speaker even admits that he would miss his partner's quirks if they were gone. The poem acknowledges the potential for conflict and even destruction ("butchered by accident") within close relationships, but ultimately celebrates the unexpected survival and resilience of the bond. The fact that after 24 years the couple are "doing British cross-word puzzles" underscores the surprising and perhaps absurd nature of their sustained companionship.

Symbols of Shared Life

Auden employs several symbols to represent the nature of shared life. The "Naples Bambino," Strauss, and Stravinsky represent the shared cultural touchstones that enrich their lives. The "British cross-word puzzles" are a sign of shared leisure activity, perhaps a metaphor for how they work to solve the problems in life. The reference to "Bombelli's / impossible yet useful numbers" is a complex metaphor. Just as Bombelli's imaginary numbers are a mathematical abstraction that proves useful, the common world created by two individuals is both improbable and essential. The "Dark Lord" and "animivorous chimaeras" are symbolic of the external threats and internal anxieties that the couple must confront together. Perhaps an open-ended question to pose is, what other cultural touchstones, if any, have been consciously omitted by the speaker, and why?

Conclusion: Fortress Against the Void

"The Common Life" is a profound reflection on the delicate balance between individuality and connection in long-term relationships. Through vivid imagery and thoughtful observations, Auden illuminates the subtle nuances of shared existence, highlighting the importance of tolerance, forgiveness, and the creation of a shared "fortress" against the outside world. The poem suggests that while relationships are inherently complex and often improbable, they offer a vital source of comfort, meaning, and protection against the "criminal noise" of history. Ultimately, the poem celebrates the enduring power of human connection and the surprising beauty of the everyday moments that sustain it. It is a quiet celebration of the ordinary and a reminder that even the most mundane aspects of life can be imbued with significance through the bonds we share.