Poem Analysis - Taller To Day

Auden's Quiet Reflection on Time and Fulfillment

W.H. Auden's "Taller To-day" is a contemplative poem that juxtaposes past memories with present contentment, acknowledging the presence of suffering while ultimately affirming the value of simple, fleeting moments. The poem begins with a nostalgic tone, reflecting on shared experiences, but gradually shifts towards a sense of peaceful acceptance. Despite undertones of darkness and struggle, the overriding feeling is one of quiet gratitude and a recognition of the present's sufficiency. The poem is relatively short and its brevity allows it to be all the more powerful.

Echoes of Memory and Acceptance

One primary theme in the poem is the passage of time and its impact on memory and perception. The opening lines evoke a specific, idyllic memory – "Walking together in a windless orchard" – representing a shared past. This memory, with its gentle imagery of a brook and orchard, stands in stark contrast to the later evocation of "Nights come bringing the snow, and the dead howl." The speaker juxtaposes this nostalgic reminiscence with the acceptance of present reality, suggesting a growth in perspective ("Taller to-day") that allows him to find peace despite the presence of darkness. The poem's title itself is an indication of this growth.

Good versus Evil

The poem also touches upon the theme of struggle against adversity, symbolized by "the Adversary." This figure suggests a force of evil or temptation that poses "too easy questions / On lonely roads," leading to suffering and the "howl" of the dead. The image paints a picture of moral and spiritual tests. The reference evokes a sense of existential angst and the challenges inherent in navigating life's uncertainties. However, the speaker's present contentment ("happy now") suggests a triumph over these challenges, or at least an ability to find solace in the face of them.

The Power of Present Peace

A third central theme is the importance of finding peace in the present moment. Even with the knowledge of past struggles and the potential for future hardships, the speaker focuses on the immediate experience: "passing but here, sufficient now / For something fulfilled this hour, loved or endured." The image of "farms lighted all along the valley" and the cessation of work at the mill evoke a sense of community and domestic tranquility. This imagery suggests that even amidst larger conflicts and existential anxieties, there is solace to be found in simple, everyday moments of peace and connection.

Light and Darkness: Contrasting Symbols

The poem utilizes contrasting symbols of light and darkness to reinforce its themes. The "snow" and the "windy dwelling" of the dead create a sense of bleakness and isolation. The "Adversary" represents a darker spiritual force. In contrast, the "farms lighted all along the valley" offer an image of warmth, community, and hope. This contrast highlights the speaker's ability to acknowledge the presence of darkness while still finding light and contentment in the present. Could the "Adversary" be interpreted as the relentless march of time itself, posing the "easy question" of our own mortality?

A Lasting Impression of Acceptance

"Taller To-day" is a quietly powerful meditation on memory, suffering, and the possibility of finding peace in the present moment. By juxtaposing idyllic memories with stark realities and contrasting symbols of light and darkness, Auden suggests that even amidst life's challenges, moments of fulfillment and connection can be found. The poem's lasting significance lies in its affirmation of the present and its understated celebration of enduring human resilience.