Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Carrion Comfort" is a poem by Gerard Manley Hopkins, first published in 1918. The poem is a meditation on the experience of suffering and despair, and explores the theme of spiritual struggle and redemption.

The poem is structured as a series of nine stanzas, each of which describes a different aspect of the speaker's experience. In the first stanza, the speaker addresses a "carrion comfort," which is a reference to a vulture or other bird of prey.

In the second stanza, the speaker describes the way in which the carrion comfort seems to offer solace and comfort in the midst of his suffering.

In the third stanza, the speaker reflects on the way in which his suffering seems to be endless and unrelenting, and suggests that he feels abandoned and alone in his struggle.

In the fourth stanza, the speaker reflects on the way in which his suffering seems to be rooted in his own spiritual shortcomings, and suggests that he is trapped in a cycle of sin and guilt.

In the fifth stanza, the speaker reflects on the way in which his suffering has made him feel disconnected from God and the divine.

In the sixth and seventh stanzas, the speaker expresses a sense of despair and hopelessness, suggesting that he has lost all sense of purpose and direction in life.

In the eighth stanza, the speaker reflects on the way in which his suffering has caused him to question the very nature of reality and the existence of God.

In the final stanza, the speaker offers a message of hope and redemption, suggesting that even though his suffering may be overwhelming and seemingly endless, there is still the possibility of spiritual renewal and the hope of redemption.

Overall, "Carrion Comfort" is a powerful and moving poem that explores the themes of suffering, spiritual struggle, and redemption. Through his use of vivid language and imagery, Hopkins creates a sense of the complexity and depth of human experience, and offers a poignant meditation on the enduring power of hope and the transformative power of faith.

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...