Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"During Decembert’s Death" is a poem by Delmore Schwartz, published in his 1973 collection "Selected Poems." The poem reflects on the themes of death, loss, and the passing of time.

Explanation:

The poem is divided into three stanzas, with each stanza representing a different aspect of the theme of death. In the first stanza, the speaker describes the "death" of December, as the trees lose their leaves and the landscape becomes barren. The speaker mourns the loss of life and the approach of winter, which is often associated with death and decay.

In the second stanza, the speaker reflects on the concept of mortality and the inevitability of death. The speaker sees the "greatness" of life in its transience, suggesting that life is beautiful precisely because it is fleeting. The speaker acknowledges that death is a natural part of the cycle of life, but still finds it difficult to accept.

In the final stanza, the speaker turns to the memory of a loved one who has passed away. The speaker remembers the moments they shared and the love they had for each other. The memory brings the speaker some comfort, but also intensifies their grief, as they realize that they will never be able to experience those moments again.

Poetic Elements:

• Form: The poem is written in free verse, with irregular line lengths and no regular rhyme scheme. This reflects the theme of transience and the unpredictable nature of life and death.
• Imagery: The poem uses vivid imagery to convey the sense of loss and decay associated with death. For example, the "bony trees" and "barren hills" of the first stanza evoke the desolation of winter. Similarly, the image of the "white-haired" person in the final stanza conveys the idea of aging and the passage of time.
• Tone: The poem has a melancholic and introspective tone, as the speaker reflects on the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. The final stanza, in particular, has a tone of nostalgia and longing, as the speaker remembers a lost loved one.

Conclusion:

During Decembert’s Death" is a poignant meditation on the themes of mortality and loss. Through its use of vivid imagery and introspective tone, the poem evokes the transience of life and the difficulty of accepting death. The poem ultimately suggests that while the passing of time and the loss of loved ones can be painful, they also remind us of the preciousness and beauty of life.

Poem Snippet:

"The white-haired person whom you loved is dead,

And you yourself are dying; it is too late to cry,

Say what you mean."

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