Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

‘Traveling Through the Dark" is a poem by William Edgar Stafford, first published in his 1962 collection, "Traveling Through the Dark." The poem reflects on the theme of moral dilemma and the choices that individuals make in difficult situations.

Explanation:

The poem describes the speaker's encounter with a dead deer on a mountain road. The speaker is faced with the moral dilemma of whether to leave the dead deer and avoid causing an accident, or to push the deer over the edge of the road and prevent the possibility of an accident.

The poem's use of simple and direct language, combined with its powerful imagery, creates a sense of the moral complexity of the situation. The poem speaks to the human experience of moral choice and responsibility, and the way in which individuals must make difficult decisions in order to do what is right.

Poetic Elements:

• Form:
• "Traveling Through the Dark" is written in free verse, without a strict rhyme or meter. The use of free verse creates a sense of spontaneity and naturalness, reflecting the uncertain and unpredictable nature of moral choice.
• Imagery:
• The poem makes use of vivid imagery to create a sense of the natural beauty of the mountain road, as well as the dark and somber mood of the situation. The descriptions of the dead deer, the "curve" of the road, and the "blue-black river" all create a powerful sense of the environment in which the moral choice is made.
• Tone:
• The tone of the poem is somber and reflective, with a sense of melancholy underlying it. The speaker is faced with a difficult moral choice, and the weight of that choice is reflected in the poem's tone.

Conclusion:

Through "Traveling Through the Dark," Stafford reflects on the theme of moral dilemma and the choices that individuals must make in difficult situations. The poem serves as a reminder of the importance of moral responsibility and the weight of individual choices. The poem's use of imagery, combined with its somber and reflective tone, make it a poignant and timeless exploration of the human experience.

Poem Snippet:

"I thought hard for us all—my only swerving—,

then pushed her over the edge into the river."

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