Poem Analysis - Petition

A Plea for Healing and Transformation

W.H. Auden's "Petition" is a fervent and complex prayer, a desperate plea for intervention and remedy. The poem's tone is urgent and demanding, yet also laced with a subtle vulnerability. It speaks of societal and personal ills, seeking a powerful force to mend what is broken. While the poem doesn't explicitly name the addressee, it evokes a sense of divine or authoritative figure who possesses the power to enact sweeping change.

Context of Societal Anxiety

Although undated, the poem resonates with the anxieties of the pre-World War II era. Auden, writing in the 1930s, witnessed the rise of fascism and the looming threat of global conflict. This historical context likely informs the poem's sense of urgency and its call for societal healing. The "intolerable neural itch" and "distortions of ingrown virginity" can be seen as metaphors for the psychological and moral sicknesses plaguing the time, reflecting a widespread feeling of unease and a need for fundamental change.

The Theme of Societal Ills

One of the main themes in "Petition" is the presence and pervasiveness of societal ills. The poem doesn't focus on individual problems, but instead outlines widespread issues needing immediate attention. Lines such as "the exhaustion of weaning, the liar's quinsy, / And the distortions of ingrown virginity" paint a picture of a society grappling with various forms of psychological and moral sickness. The speaker implores this higher power to enact a “sovereign touch,” implying that only a significant and authoritative force can successfully treat these deep rooted issues.

The Power of Transformation

Another central theme is the potential for transformation and renewal. The poem is not just a list of problems; it's a fervent request for change and betterment. The lines "Cover in time with beams those in retreat / That, spotted, they turn though the reverse were great" suggest an opportunity to restore hope in those who are losing faith. The desire for "new styles of architecture, a change of heart" encapsulates the poem's core message. It speaks to a desire for fundamental renewal, both in the physical structures of society and in the inner lives of individuals. It is a request for the world to abandon the old destructive ways of thinking and building and to embrace a better future.

The Symbolism of Light and Darkness

Light and darkness serve as recurring symbols throughout the poem, representing hope and despair, knowledge and ignorance. The plea to "Send to us power and light" immediately sets up this dichotomy. Light is presented as a restorative force, capable of "curing" and "covering" those in need. Conversely, the "house of the dead" and those "in retreat" represent the darkness and despair that plague society. The speaker’s plea to "look shining at / New styles of architecture" emphasizes the transformative power of light as a beacon of hope and guidance toward a brighter future. Perhaps, the contrast between these images is meant to underscore the urgent need for intervention and the profound impact that change could have on society.

Concluding Thoughts on a Timeless Prayer

In conclusion, "Petition" is more than just a plea for help; it is an exploration of societal anxieties and a testament to the enduring human hope for transformation. The poem's urgent tone, vivid imagery, and exploration of themes such as societal ills and the power of transformation elevate it beyond a simple request. The poem is a timeless reflection on the human condition and the yearning for a better world. Even today, readers can connect with the underlying desire for healing and fundamental societal change. This poem serves as a powerful and enduring reminder of humanity's need for compassion, understanding, and hope.